Edge Magazine March 2013 Edition by MLP Publishing Ltd

EdgeMagazine March 2013 FREE EDITION

Your essential guide to Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands

Plot to plate Artist Kate Farley draws on her inspiration

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery presents…. Metropolis: Reflections on the modern city

Marriage A Belgrade Theatre Review

Make the most of the Easter holidays

Help Harry Help Others

Cracking kids’ activities

A young boy’s battle

Food & Drink • Culture • Business • Fashion • Lifestyle

EdgeMagazine

award winning food is just the starter...

Our two great Warwickshire gastropubs - The Stag and The Moorings - have a whole sackful of awards between them. But it’s not just the fabulous food, real ales and fine wines that makes them award-winning. It’s also the relaxed, attentive service, the mood-lifting interiors and the way every member of our staff wants you to enjoy every minute of your visit. Run by two enthusiastic protégés of Raymond Blanc, each pub has its own inimitable style but share exactly the same love of food and people.

lively contemporary two-storey canalside pub at Myton Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 3NY. Tel: 01926 425043 www.themoorings.co.uk Publican Finalist 2011 Eagle Star Award winner 2011 Les Routiers Finalist 2012 JUST ANNOUNCED

Food Pub Of The Year 2012

Eagle Star Awards 2012

intimate classic country pub at Welsh Road, Offchurch, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV33 9AQ. Tel: 01926 425801 www.thestagatoffchurch.com National Food Pub of the Year Les Routiers Newcomer of the Year 2011 Publican Finalist 2011 Les Routiers Finalist 2012

www.edgemagazine.org

EDITOR’S BIT Welcome to the March edition of Edge Magazine. Spring marks new beginnings and we’re starting as we mean to go on with some new regular features including our What’s On page, bringing you exciting events from the three counties, The Local Kitchen, for the foodies out there and Escape the Chains, where each month we’ll be featuring our favourite independent shops in the region. This month, we’ve got some fantastic articles from the arts, with the Heart of England galleries presenting their upcoming exhibitions. First up on our list is Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery’s Metropolis: Reflections on the modern city. We’ve also got an interview with textile artist, Kate Farley, who’s flying the flag for home grown food and a review of Nikolai Gogol’s comic masterpiece, Marriage, at the Belgrade Theatre. Our favourite contributors are back with more on gardening from Hilary Collins. Don’t miss the voucher for The Tree Shop at Matthews Nurseries, Tenbury Wells. Meg Hanlon addresses that ever-burning question; should we follow fashion? And Mike Stafford gives us the low-down on The Underground Man by Ross Macdonald. Thinking of trying something new? Check out Melanie Taffs’ guide to herbal teas.

Michael Abu-Zalaf Editor-in-Chief

With Easter fast approaching, we have a shortlist of fun, family activities for the kids. Chocolate lovers will find treats from Chocolate Deli set to make this Easter special and we’ve also got a story of the Easter Bunny you may not have heard before. On behalf of the team at Edge, have a great March, a cracking Easter and a Happy Mother’s Day. We hope to see you all again next month. If you like what you see in Edge Magazine, please show your support by liking our Facebook page and following us on Twitter, as well as checking out our website at: www.edgemagazine.org

FEATURES Plot to Plate..................................................9

Make the most of the Easter holidays..........44

Marriage......................................................12

Help Harry Help Others.................................66

Artist Kate Farley draws on her inspiration

A Belgrade Theatre Review

Cracking kids’ activities

A young boy’s battle

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery presents….................................18 Metropolis: Reflections on the modern city

Front cover supplied by Billesley Manor

EdgeMagazine

CONTENTS

Plot to plate

Marriage

Bromsgrove Festival

Reflections on the modern city

Escape the chains

The tree of life

Herbal Teas' please

Enhance the natural you

Billesley Manor health club

Through the lens

Super straight and centre parted

Style is eternal

Network in the city

Lunch is served

The Easter bunny

Chocolate Deli

Make the most of the Easter holidays

An all-girls education

The local kitchen

Purity beer

The Perfect wine

The Underground Man: A review

Chasing the dragon

The great rotation

a fund for all seasons

Help Harry Help others

What's on

A little comic Relief

www.edgemagazine.org

Imagine comfort Imagine a space for wellbeing that includes all the calm and relaxation you could ever dream of. A personal oasis of tranquillity where time is your own. A place to lean back, close your eyes and enjoy a well-deserved time-out. This doesn’t have to be pure imagination. Make yourself comfortable in a Stressless® of your own.

www.stressless.co.uk

Fea P

Features you’ll enjoy with a genuine Stressless®: • Patented Plus System for exquisite lumbar and neck support • A choice of up to three sizes • Wide range of luxurious leather & fabric options • 10 year guarantee on internal mechanism

Orion Recliners now

£995 Save £354

Stressless® Orion recliner and stool in Batick Latte and Natural wood

10 www.stressless.co.uk

Warwick Road, Warwick Road,Kenilworth Kenilworth Tel: 01926 Tel: 01926854884 854884 Sun 10.30am-4.30pm Open Mon-Sat 9.00am-5.30pm,

Open Mon-Sat 9.00am-5.30pm, Sun 10.30am-4.30pm www.thomashearnltd.com

*Stressless® Orion recliners with footstools are available in Batick Latte leather with Natural wood ﬁnish now £995. Save £354 was RRP £1,349 and now Recommended Promotional Price £995. Offer available between 1st December 2012 and 28th February 2013. While stocks last at participating Stressless® retailers only. Main illustration features the Stressless® Magic recliner and stool.

EdgeMagazine

THE TEAM EDITORIAL

SALES

Michael Abu-Zalaf - Editor in Chief

Alice Perrey - Sales Executive

@ZalafAbu -

michael@edgemagazine.org

alice@edgemagazine.org

Tel:07809 702 992

Tel:07714 490 943

Lucinda Bunn - Copy Editor

Michele Ford - Sales Executive

@lucibunn -

l.bunn@edgemagazine.org

Hannah Griffiths - Editorial Assistant @EdgeMag_Hannah-

@alice_perrey -

@EdgeMag_Michele -

michele@edgemagazine.org

Tel:07515 493 703

hannah@edgemagazine.org

INFO@EDGEMAGAZINE.ORG

TEL: 0121 288 3528 OR

CONTRIBUTORS

07809 702 992

Tom Ware

Laura Clay

Meg Hanlon

Hilary Collins

Mike Stafford

Laura Clay

Melanie Taffs

Liam Bird

www.edgemagazine.org

The famed Taste of Turners menu – 5 courses for £35 - continues on Tuesday nights only Tasting Menu £80 per person is available all week at Turners Simply Turners is also available from £30

Tel: 0121 426 4440 www.turnersrestaurantbirmingham.co.uk info@turnersrestaurantbirmingham.co.uk

Opening Times Lunch: Fri-Sat 12pm onwards Dinner: Tue-Sat from 7pm Closed Sunday and Monday

@TurnersRestBrum

Turners Restaurant, 69 High Street, Harborne, Birmingham, B17 9NS

EdgeMagazine

www.edgemagazine.org

PLOT TO PLATE Kate Farley talks textiles Lucinda Bunn

s advocates for homegrown food and getting back to local produce, we are in awe of Kate Farley’s collection ‘Plot to Plate’. In the age of the great battle between supermarkets and local producers, it’s great to find others flying the flag for fresh food. And just when you think the mighty supermarket has conquered all, you discover grass root power; through prints no less. Born and brought up in Norfolk, Kate’s work has been shaped by an appreciation of space, simplicity and colour and inspired by the landscape. Kate responds to place, site history and memory while exploring elements of perspective, elevation and scale primarily through drawing and printmaking. Following her first class honours degree in Printed Textile Design and an MA in Book Art, Kate has developed her practice spanning the field of art and design, completing site-specific commissions in surface design, producing a large number of artists’ books and several series of works on paper. Kate currently teaches part-time at the Birmingham Institute of Art and Design, part of Birmingham City University. But we caught her between her busy schedule of teaching and creating, to ask what homegrown food means to her.

Landscape has almost always been my primary creative inspiration and documenting journeys by making small editions of printed books was something I did for a number of years following an MA in Book Arts at Camberwell College in the late 90s. I’ve always kept sketchbooks of my drawings and looking back through them, it is clear that I have recorded our relationship with landscape; a ploughed field, a harbour wall, the simple line of a telegraph cable stretching across the flat fields. I like the combination of the natural world with signs of human life. My ‘Plot to Plate’ collection contains this idea but on a much more local scale. I record the way we work with the land in order to grow crops. I document the garden design as well as the seasonal changes and crops growing, the way we use the soil. In relation to your collection ‘Plot to Plate’, what does home grown food mean to you? Home grown food means fresh, flavour and honesty. We garden organically on our allotment, so yes, I fight the slugs but there’s something so special when all the veg on the plate is our own and due to our hard work. I was brought up with home grown produce and I think once that’s the norm it’s hard to give it up.

Tell us about your process for prints. How do your drawings become designs?

You describe your inspiration as ‘our relationship with place’, where is your favourite place to be?

I make most drawings in situ at a garden, for example National Trust’s Baddesley Clinton, or Birmingham University’s Winterbourne Gardens, to capture a sense of the place; the rhythms, colours, shapes, and these often look quite map-like. Returning to the studio, I develop the drawings further, often combining elements of several drawings in order to create a composition suitable for a design. Some designs are extremely simple using only one or two motifs whilst others are far more complex. If I plan to screen print the final artwork, I need to consider the number of colours I am prepared to print and the qualities I can translate to screen.

Tricky question, I’m a Norfolk girl and when I see the flat fields of harvested corn stretching for miles with the sails of a boat appearing to be moving through it (actually on the rivers of the Norfolk Broads), I’m most happy. Realistically, a couple of hours digging at the allotment in south Birmingham does me well too.

Sometimes I digitally scan lino printed motifs that I make from the drawings and work with them in Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator to finalise a design. Alternatively, I may draw the final artwork directly on to film to expose on screen in order to capture the hand drawn qualities. Accuracy in terms of placement and repeat are crucial if this is the case. I really enjoy working directly with drawing or hand-printing but I do value the contribution that technology has played in enabling us to refine and adjust artwork so much quicker using the computer. Your prints celebrate the natural world, was this always your intention?

How does working with textiles pose practical problems where other mediums might not? I think I’ve always seen benefits of working with textile rather than problems. Albeit rather a simplistic mindset I’ve always liked the fact that you can iron fabric flat, unlike a sheet of paper and it’s portable unlike a lump of carved stone. I create problems by wanting to print textile products myself whereas outsourcing would make my life easier but I’m coming round to that idea in order to move my business forward. Have you always expressed yourself creatively through art? Yes, I was a huge fan of BBC’s Take Hart but never achieved Gallery success there! My family is creative and practical so I was exposed to art, craft and design from a young age. Once I had enrolled for art school, it felt right

EdgeMagazine and I’ve always enjoyed the combination of fine art and design, thinking and practice. As a lecturer in textiles, how do you encourage your students in their creative talents? I am extremely committed in my drive to nurture a student’s own style; their own visual language that feels true to them. Drawing is so important; you can’t cut corners to create a great design. Even simplicity is hard work. There is too much imitation and lazy design out there and I try to encourage my students to be better than that and to realise their own potential for a lifetime, not a one hit wonder. There are so many ways to work in relation to textiles and I enjoy helping them to find their own way. What ventures have you got coming up this year? I’m currently working on a solo show at Tinsmiths in Ledbury which is opening in May. Tinsmiths is a beautiful fabrics and lighting shop and the owner, Phoebe Clive and I have collaborated on developing a range of printed fabrics for cushions to launch alongside an exhibition of my prints. The linens are working brilliantly for the printed patterns. I also have some exciting projects in the pipeline that I look forward to announcing over the coming year or so. I’m in talks with some key British companies in relation to bespoke designs and that’s really exciting.

It was great to sell design work to Boden last autumn and I hope we can continue that relationship this year too. I’d love National Trust to stock my ‘Plot to Plate’ products in the properties that originally inspired my designs too; the same goes for Winterbourne Gardens here in Birmingham. I’m working on convincing people that interesting and inspiring products can be found in and amongst a lot of the bland and generic. Just a small mission of mine. What direction would you like your work to take in the future? It’s important to me that I keep drawing to provide inspiration for my designs but I’m also keen to work with more British companies with a heritage, a history that can be interpreted in modern surface pattern. I’d love to design further bespoke pattern inspired by archives, collections and products, for example a company like Pashley Cycles, for their own products. Responding to a particular place or collection is key in all aspects of my work. It starts that way and I like the final design work to be appropriate for its destination. Full circle.

www.katefarley.co.uk www.katefarley.wordpress.com www.twitter.com/katefarleyprint

www.edgemagazine.org

bathrooms galore...

A TRUE PLANTMANS PARADISE

Celebrating 25 years in business

The complete installation service from concept to completion Bathrooms Galore, 49 Stoney Lane, Yardley, Birmingham B25 8RE

www.bathroomsgalore.co.uk Telelephone:

0121 783 9966

bathrooms galore design file.indd 1

21/02/2013 22:48:31

Yew Tree Flowers

At Earlswood Garden and Landscaping Centre, just 1 mile from Junction 3 off the M42

Forshaw Heath Road, Earlswood B94 5JU

Specialising in fresh cut flowers, shurbs, trees and plants Catering for weddings, funerals, corporate events and contract work.

Tel: 01564 700 152 email: sales@earlswoodplants.co.uk

Contact Stephen on 07931 904at 389 orFlowers) 01564 794 265 Contact Steven (Formally Box Tree M: 07772 884088 E: stephenboodhun@hotmail.com stephen@yewtreeflowers.co.uk www.yewtreeflowers.co.uk Yew Tree Farm Stratford Road Wootton Wawen Nr Henley In Arden B95 6BY 01564 792 701 www.yewtreefarm.uki.net Opening Times 10am - 5pm, Tuesdays - Sunday Open Bank Holiday Mondays

EdgeMagazine

MARRIAGE It’s not for everyone Lucinda Bunn

ikolai Gogol’s comic masterpiece, Marriage, opened at the Belgrade Theatre last month, offering a thoughtful and entertaining reminder that matrimony isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. In this adaptation, the action takes place over two acts, during late spring in 19th century St Petersburg. Directed by Hamish Glen, the play tells the tale of a love match between pompous and neurotic Podkolyosin, played by Mark Fleischmann and sweet, naïve Agafya, played by Janine Mellor. Convinced it is time he ‘took a wife’, Podkolyosin ropes in the help of matchmaker, Fyokla (Barbara Young) and his best friend, Kochkaryov (John Hopkins); useless and untrustworthy, respectively. Throw in three more odd-ball suitors and you’ve got yourself a raucous display of heartbreak, humiliation and prewedding jitters. A match made in hell. As the story unfolds, each suitor takes his turn in wooing Agafya. There’s Paul Trussell’s camp and quirky Oddsoxsky who wants his bride to speak French, just because; Omletsky, played by Mark Extance, who’s only interested in Agafya’s dowry; oh and there’s the drunk, Naschermunchsky, because there’s always a drunk, played superbly by Robert Morgan. Naschermunchsky the naval officer, whose ruddy face, buck teeth and reputation for falling over and sleeping on stage make him perhaps the most unsuitable of the three. But he is the only one with honest intentions towards Agafya. The most compelling scene is Naschermunchsky’s soliloquy; equally tragic as it is hilarious. After a clever power play by Podkolyosin’s wing man, Kochkaryov, Agafya chooses her leading man. But sooner than she can get her wedding dress on, Podkolyosin has leapt out the window, realising he’s not ready after all. The play makes an amusing point about marriage versus singledom and the characters’ dalliance is beautifully interspersed with arias and clarinet accompaniment from the talents of Polina Skovoroda Shepherd and Merlin Shepherd. The fool, Podkolyosin and the clown, Naschermunchsky ironically come out on top, at least finding solace in knowing what they want. Nikolai Gogol professes, ‘there’s a lot to be said for marriage. The opposite also applies’. And with his play he mocks those who marry out of fear and desperation, namely the Kochkaryovs of this world. The pressure of Gogol’s 19th century society, to marry well for status, mirrors our modern melodrama of soul mates, matchmaking websites and competition on the marry-go-round of self-torment. Marriage is witty, poignant and jolly in its resolution that marriage isn’t for everyone. If you didn’t get a chance to see Marriage, the Belgrade Theatre have another fantastic production waiting in

the wings. A brand new adaptation of a Chekhov classic, Sons Without Fathers is a tale of sex, vodka and shattered dreams. Sons Without Fathers shines a light on a group of disaffected thirty-somethings – too old to move with the times and too young to let go of their dreams. The curtains open April 13th and tickets are available to book now.

www.edgemagazine.org

BelgradeTheatre Belgrade Square Coventry CV1 1GS 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk

EdgeMagazine Judith Hitchin Estate Agent Limited

Newlyn, 3 Fiery Hill Road, Barnt Green B45 8LB £1,100,000 A fine example of a four bedroom detached Victorian residence offering excellent family accommodation set in an elevated position with gardens totalling approximately 0.8 acres. EPC = F

Highfield House, 3 Hillside, The Bridlepath, Eachway Lane, Cofton Hackett B45 9XZ £499,995 An immaculately presented spacious four bedroom detached residence situated along a gated private driveway with outstanding views over the Lickey Hills and Golf course. The residence is conveniently placed for Birmingham City Centre and the villages of Barnt Green and Rubery. EPC = D

BARNT GREEN - 67 Hewell Road, Barnt Green B45 8NL Tel: 0121 447 8300 Fax: 0121 447 7131

The Spinney, Aqueduct Lane, Alvechurch B48 7BS £799,500 A very spacious traditional 5 bedroom detached residence located in a semi rural position situated between Alvechurch and Barnt Green villages. The property sits in approximately one acre of delightful gardens with swimming pool and includes a Spinney to the rear. EPC = D

The Rowans, 528 Groveley Lane, Cofton Hackett, B45 8UB £499,995 A most interesting and very unique FOUR STOREY, four bedroom period residence with lovely south facing garden, its own private woodland with summer house and further back land with parking and garage. EPC = E

BROMSGROVE - 26 The Strand, Bromsgrove B61 8AB Tel: 01527 839 400 Fax: 01527 835 868

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

BROMSGROVE FESTIVAL A guide to the music

romsgrove Festival celebrates its 53rd year in April with events throughout the month and continuing on into May. The festival showcases local artistic talent in film, music and classical recitals. It’s not to be missed this spring.

As a stage for young musicians and local artists, the Bromsgrove Festival has developed the International Young Musicians’ Platform. Applicants have to be aged 17 to 25 to enter. Singers can be aged up to 27 and must be of at least conservatoire entrance level. The Young Musicians’ Platform runs over 4 days selecting 3 finalists for the exciting Finalist’s Concert which this year will be on Sunday 21st April, 7pm at New Guesten Hall, Avoncroft. The earlier rounds will begin on Thursday 18th and continue on the 19th and 20th April, 9:30am to 6pm. Members of the public can go and enjoy the outstanding violinists, cellists, pianists and singers. You might also hear wind instruments; clarinets, saxophone and maybe even a marimba. At the New Guesten Hall on 24th April, the Bromsgrove Festival welcomes Dame Felicity Lott for a recital of ‘A celebration of English song’ with accompanists Sebastian Wybrew. Then next up at the Artrix, on Sunday April 27th, 4 Girls 4 Harps will be performing. The quartet was first formed 14 years ago and they’ll be treating festival-goers to an evening of glamour, lively chat and most importantly, beautiful music from their favourite composers, including Handel and Bernstein. On Friday 3rd May, Patricia Routledge will also be at the Artrix with her ‘Facing the Music’ in conversation with Edward Seckersen. Roultedge, known for her acting fame, is also a trained singer and has had success on both sides of the Atlantic. This very special performance will be accented with rare and treasured recordings of her glittering career. A special festival orchestral programme with the English Symphony Orchestra and conductors Dr Barry Smith

and Dr Donald Hunt will be performed at the Artrix on Saturday 11th May. The programme begins with Britten’s ‘Young Persons’ Guide to the Orchestra’ and ends with Elgar’s ‘Enigma Variations’; in between there will be Warlock’s ‘Serenade for Strings’ and his ‘Capriol Suite’ and the Worcestershire composer, Julius Harrison’s ‘Bredon Hill’. Dr Smith has recently written what is described as a ‘definitive book’ on Warlock. The concert will be preceded by a free talk on Warlock by Dr Smith commencing at 6.15pm. 2013 marks 100 years since the birth of Benjamin Britten and two films will be shown at the Artrix on April 27th. Both films made by Tony Palmer, the first one in 1979 has interesting interviews with Peter Pears and others, and his new film ‘Nocturne’ especially produced this year for the anniversary. The first film commencing at 4.00pm will be served with tea and cake. The second film will commence at 7.15pm, with a glass of wine served in the interval. Tony Palmer will be present to introduce both films. On Friday 24th May, Timothy West and the Paväo String Quartet are at the Artrix performing ‘Intimate Letters’. The composer Janácek fell deeply in love with a much younger woman. The affair inspired him to produce not only a fine quartet but also passionate love letters. Timothy West reads Janácek’s letters in chronological order between the movements of the composer’s second quartet. Bookings may be made by post to the Bromsgrove Festival Office, The Oaks, Rowney Green, Alvechurch, B48 7Q, or via answerphone to 07824 859572 . Tickets are available at the Artrix booking office either in person, by telephone or on their website. Further details of the programme can be found on the Festival website.

www.artrix.co.uk

www.edgemagazine.org

THE 53rd BrOMSGrOVE FESTIVAL 18 April – 24 May 2013

Holy Trinity International School

The 33rd International Young Musicians’ Platform Thursday 18 April to Sunday 21 April

18th -21st April International Young Musicians’ Platform New Guesten Hall, Avoncroft Museum Entry is free to the early rounds which take place on the 18, 19 and 20 April 9.30 am – 6.00 pm 21 April 9.30 am – 1.00 pm Finalists Concert Sunday 21 April – 7.00 pm.

Wednesday 24th April New Guesten Hall Avoncroft Museum – 7.45pm Dame Felicity Lott ‘accompanist Sebastian Wybrew ‘A celebration of English Song’

Saturday 27th April Artrix – 4.00 & 7.15pm

Saturday 11 May 2013 Artrix – 8.00pm

Two films recognising 100th anniversary of Benjamin Britten introduced by Tony Palmer

English Symphony Orchestra Conductors: Dr Barry Smith and Dr Donald Hunt

‘A Time There Was’ (1979) – tea and cake will be served ‘Nocturne’ (2013) – glass of wine served in the interval

Young persons’ guide to the orchestra Britten Serenade for Strings Warlock Capriol Suite Warlock Bredon Hill Julius Harrison Enigma Variations Elgar

Sunday 28th April Artrix – 7.30pm 4 Girls, 4 Harps International award winning harpists Quartet founded in 2000 An evening of glamour, lively chat and beautiful music

Friday 3 May Artrix – 7.45pm ‘Facing the Music’ Patricia Routledge in conversation with Edward Seckersen. A life in musical theatre on both sides of the Atlantic. She is better known as an actress but was also trained as a singer and the evening is illustrated with rare recordings.

Concert preceded by a free talk on Warlock by Dr Barry Smith at 6.15 pm

Friday 24 May 2013 Artrix – 7.45pm ‘Intimate Letters’ Timothy West with the Paväo String Quartet reads Janácek’s letters in chronological order between movements of the composer’s 2nd Quartet

Holy Trinity International School is applying to become one of the Government’s new Free Schools. It provides an outstanding education for girls and boys aged 4 to 19, has a thriving Nursery and is renowned for academic excellence and outstanding pastoral care. Our recent GCSE results speak for themselves 100% of our students gained 5 A* - C, whilst 95% of students attained 5 A*- C grades, which includes Mathematics, English and Science; 98% of all exams taken by the school’s students achieved A* - C grades. 44% of all Holy Trinity International School students take 11 subjects each on average. Contact us to register your interest.

NB: Both venues have free parking

Early Booking Details: Bookings may be made by post to the Bromsgrove Festival Office, The Oaks, Rowney Green, Alvechurch, B48 7Q, via answerphone to 07824 859572 or by email to bromsgrovefestival@btconnect.com Messages can also be left on answer phone on 01527 876504 Tickets are available at the Artrix booking office either in person, by telephone 01527 577330 or www.artrix.co.uk. Further details of programmes may be seen on the Festival website www.bromsgrovefestival.co.uk

Patrons and subscribers will be given priority For further information ring: 01527 878326

Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 2BY. Tel: 01562 822 929 Email : contact@holytrinity.co.uk

primary_times_oct12.indd 1

03/10/2012 15:41:35

Jitish Kallat, Sweatopia (The Cry of the , 2010) Courtesy of artist/Haunch of Venison

EdgeMagazine

Dayanita Singh, Dream Villa Series (2008), Courtesy of the artist/ Frith Street Gallery

Nicholas Provost, still from Storyteller (2010), Courtesy of the artist/ Haunch of Venison

www.edgemagazine.org

REFLECTIONS ON THE MODERN CITY Birmingham’s contemporary collection Lucinda Bunn

he Heart of England galleries are an independent group dedicated to promoting the wealth of art galleries in the Heart of England. The galleries offer a wide variety of art collections and showcase an enormous range of exciting and interesting exhibitions. And here at Edge Magazine, we’re bringing you updates throughout the year on exhibitions and events from the best galleries in our region.

Metropolis: Reflections on the modern city This March, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery will be hosting one of the most ambitious schemes ever launched by the Art Fund in its presentation of Metropolis: Reflections on the modern city. The exhibition will include 70 works from international contemporary artists, each offering their views on the modern global city. Opening at a time of budget cut-backs in the arts, the £1million collection is a significant boost to the West Midlands region’s cultural landscape. Metropolis: Reflections on the modern city has been collected by BMAG and the New Art Gallery, Walsall, in association with Ikon Gallery after the three organisations won the hotly-contested Art Fund International initiative. Metropolis features artwork from a variety of media; photography, painting, video and sculpture and every piece has been created in the past decade. Orbit by Miao Xiaochun portrays the frantic pace of Beijing and its moving landscape of vehicles and pedestrians in their metropolitan lives. But Dayanita Singh’s Dream Villa, highlights the mysterious and atmospheric view of modern India. Infused with light and colour, the photographs suggest that even the most ordinary urban environment can have enigmatic character. Several works in the collection represent different areas of Birmingham. Christiane Baumgartner uses video and woodcut to create the diptych Ladywood, inspired by reflections of a railway bridge onto the canal. Beat Streuli’s video Pallasades follows the crowds walking up and down the ramp to the shopping centre on one day in 2001, where the repetition of each individual’s part suggests the universality of the human experience while also highlighting its diversity. Ola Kolehmainen’s Shadow of Church takes the iconic Selfridges building

as its subject, highlighting the fusion of traditional and modern buildings in Birmingham city centre to offer an abstract instead of a documentary image. Simon Cane, Interim Director, Birmingham Museums Trust says, ‘Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is proving itself as a leading player in contemporary art in the UK. Metropolis is a great boost to the region’s art scene, bringing some of the best international art to our doorsteps. We have been collecting these works for the past five years and it is fantastic to finally see the finished collection open to the public’. Other artists in the collection include Aleksandra Mir, Nicholas Provost, Matias Faldbakken, Barry McGee, Yang Zhenzhong, Cao Fei, Romauld Hazoumè, Josef Robakowski and Rashid Rana. Metropolis: Reflections on the modern city opens at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery on March 23rd and entrance is free. The fantastic funding has provided an opportunity like no other for Birmingham. The collection of international contemporary art has been brought in over a five year period, encouraging a radical change in the scale and ambition of contemporary art collecting in the UK; an inspiring exhibition and a wonderful endorsement to the Birmingham art scene. Upcoming exhibitions from the Heart of England galleries… Mac Birmingham presents Little Yemen by Sonia Audhali 9th Feb – 14th April Compton Verney Art Gallery celebrates 500 Years of Italian Art 23rd March – 23rd June The New Art Gallery Walsall presents Birth, Death and Religion by Jacob Epstein and Damien Hirst 1st January – 27th October The Public presents Photographs of the Black Country 13th February – 6th May The Barber Institute of Fine Arts showcases 17th-19th century British miniatures 1st February – 5th May Herbert Art Gallery and Museum presents Caught in the Crossfire 25th January – 7th July

EdgeMagazine

ESCAPE THE CHAINS We’re introducing a new feature here at Edge Magazine, celebrating our favourite independent shops in the three counties and striving always, to escape the chains.

The Richard Harvey Collection Lucinda Bunn

ichard Harvey is a fantastic homeware and furniture shop in Shipston-on-Stour. Combining an eclectic mix of bohemian mirrors, vintage signs, beautiful room fragrances and unique soft furnishings, Richard Harvey Collection showcases an interior design story you’ll want to see. Proprietors Richard and Louise took over Richard’s father’s furniture shop over ten years ago and they’ve developed their business, hand-selecting pieces for their quality and character. The Chapel Showroom is two storeys of leather and upholstered sofas, elegant armchairs and wooden cabinets. The rich, earthy tones of Richard and Louise’s furniture collection highlight their world of inspiration. Each piece is ethically produced and Richard and Louise work with fair-trade responsible suppliers. The sofas are all British made with the local knole style, with its drop down arms and rope ties, proving popular. The china red cabinet, tribal necklace artwork display and natural hide rugs are some of the more exotic pieces. Changing pace in their accessories shop, the rooms are light and feminine in contrast to the Chapel Showroom.

Richard and Louise have prints by local artists and ceramics from a local potter along with interesting light fixtures and some fantastic serving platters and bowls; one made from hammered foil and the other like a hand-painted picture wheel. At Richard Harvey Collection, you’ll find not only an interior design experience but a service that continues in your home. If you like a piece but you’re not sure how it will look in your living room, Richard and Louise come to you. They’ll bring accessory options and the piece you’d like to try and give consultations on light, space and colour schemes. That way, you can make an informed decision. Richard and Louise offer the peace of mind that buying online won’t give you; they don’t aim for customer satisfaction, they ensure it.

28 Church Street Shipston On Stour, Warwickshire CV36 4AP Tel: 01608 662 168 www.rhcollection.co.uk

If you’d like to nominate your favourite independent shop to be recognised in our Escape the Chains feature, then please email your suggestions to: escapethechains@edgemagazine.org

www.edgemagazine.org

Italian INSPIRATION. British INNOVATION. You’ve dreamt about it. You’ve visualised just how much a conservatory could enhance your home and your quality of life. And now, we’d like to open your mind to a whole new possibility. The possibility of Loggia, from 5 Star Windows.

If you’re looking to add more style to your lifestyle, nothing quite comes close to Loggia by 5 Star. With its magnifi cent exterior, the first impression will be of superbly constructed elegance, and the lasting impression will be of an investment well made.

Why not request a copy of our exquisite Loggia brochure or arrange a FREE design?

CALL 01905 887713

visit www.5starwindows.co.uk or pop into our fabulous showroom at:

Units 1 & 2 Tenat Works, Worcester Road Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 1JR

EdgeMagazine

THE TREE OF LIFE Plant a tree and get growing Hilary Collins

othing works as hard as a tree. Patio plants, wild meadows and even shrubs ‘do their bit’ for the environment but trees produce oxygen, clean the air, provide for wildlife and reduce urban crime and above all, they make us feel good. The worry is that, as a nation, we are failing to plant enough trees. Sadly, town councils are felling trees faster than they are replanting them and with extensive housing developments, woodland and hedgerow habitats are being lost forever. As gardeners, we must seize the baton. Even if you are not of the gardening persuasion but you have a small patch of ground, you can make a contribution to the planet by planting a tree.

Photography by Frank P. Matthews

Spring is a great time of year for planting and back in February, I had the opportunity to collect apple trees from Frank P. Matthews Nurseries in Tenbury, for a client’s orchard. Driving along the country lanes of deepest Worcestershire, you’ll pass fields lined with 1000s of young trees-in-waiting. Parking up at their shop, you’re surrounded by conifers in containers with row upon row of young deciduous ornamentals. As

bundles of bare root trees go whizzing by on the forklift, destined for the potting shed, you’ll see that every specimen is beautifully labelled and branch perfect. If you need a tree, this is the place to be but which variety to choose? That is the question. Planting an oak or a beech tree is all very well if you have a few acres, (although this is up for debate with the changing climate and current disease problems) but most folks have a modest patch and need trees that will not outgrow their niche. I am always seeking out new varieties for small gardens. I got chatting to Tree Shop manager Steve, who pointed out some rare and special trees; things you may not find in a regular garden centre. Matthews grow an impressive range from Abies to Zelkova and just about everything in between. They have an exciting collection of Snakebark Maples, Cornus and Magnolia but their roots are in fruit-tree production; apples, pears, plums and cherries. A quick flick through their catalogue (a mine of useful information on selecting varieties and cultural tips) will get you in the mood for gardening.

www.edgemagazine.org Steve introduced me to an aptly and magnificently named Rowan called Sorbus ‘Dodong’ Olympic Flame. What better tree to choose than this in celebration of our nation’s success in 2012? A columnar upright variety, not exceeding 4m (13ft) when mature, will not cast shade or invade a neighbour’s garden. The young foliage is of a coppery hue, before turning mid-green. Clusters of white flowers in spring produce bunches of huge vermilion berries, ready to be devoured by thrush and blackbird but the pièce de résistance is the triumphant flame coloured autumn foliage. Then my eye was drawn to a delightful small weeping tree of incredibly neat habit. Larix decidua ‘Puli’ was bred in Hungary and in February, its bare stems resembled a fountain of carefully coiffeured spaghetti. In March, fluffy whorls of bright lime green explode onto the pendulous branches. Come autumn, these tresses turn golden yellow before exposing bare stems. I like the architectural shape of the naked branches over winter and the promise of the fresh young needles in spring. This amazing Larch will only grow to 1.2m (4ft), will tolerate clay soils and require no pruning to keep its shape. It will even grow in shade and would be ideal in a large terrace pot. But if I had room for only one tree in my urban chic courtyard or tiny country cottage, my choice would be Malus toringo ‘Scarlett’. Happy in clay, needs minimal pruning, with excellent disease resistance, this crabapple is the perfect little tree. Clocking in at around 4m (13ft), it provides interest all year. In spring, the fragrant deep rose-pink blossom smothers the branches; a real attraction for honey bees. Interesting deep-lobed leaves emerge in shades of violet, becoming dark holly green for summer. By autumn, they are an amazing fiery red, suffused with purple. Little wine-red fruits appear which persist long after leaf fall, until the birds have feasted on them. What about the winter months? Well this little tree, with its rounded head, is ideal for brightening the gloom and displaying your Christmas lights. Planting a tree is a special occasion. Choosing the right variety is part of the fun and the process deserves consideration and planning. Make a day of it and take a trip to Tenbury. The quaint little market town by the River Teme, is set in the breathtaking countryside, dotted with welcoming country pubs. After lunch, you can pop into Matthews Nuseries, where the very knowledgeable and friendly team can advise you on which trees to choose.

Hilary Collins BSc. (Hons)hort., M.I.Hort. Envisage...gardens by design Grower, Horticultural Consultant and Garden Designer Grafton Nursery Grafton Flyford, Worcester WR7 4PW For advice on garden design, landscape construction and planting contact: email: hilary@envisage-gardens.co.uk www.envisage-gardens.co.uk & www.grafton-nursery.co.uk

Sorbus ‘Dodong’ Olympic Flame

    

 

  

      

EdgeMagazine

HERBAL TEAS, PLEASE Improve your health with a new blend Melanie Taffs

erbal teas are renowned for their medicinal properties but what are the actual benefits that boost your immune system and detoxify your body? It looks like tea, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brewed like tea but it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t actually tea at all. All normal tea comes from the Camellia Sinensis Bush but herbal teas are tisanes more

commonly known as infusions. Tisanes are made from mixtures of dried leaves, seeds, grasses, nuts, bark, fruits, flowers and other botanical elements. Unlike other forms of tea, most herbal teas contain no caffeine, they taste great, contribute to your 2 litres of water a day and can give you a variety of health benefits.

www.edgemagazine.org

How to choose the right herbal tea for you…

Red Clover

It’s important to look for a well sourced product made from high quality ingredients. If you’re drinking the tea for medicinal benefits, then definitely steer clear of products that add things like essential oils or flavours. To get the best out of your tea, make sure you steep your loose tea or tea bags for 5 to 10 minutes. This will really bring out the best health properties. Drinking it every day will bring you significant changes to your mood, your skin, your sense of well-being and your energy levels.

Red clover helps with menopausal problems, cancer, mastitis, asthma, bronchitis and eczema.

The choices There are so many wonderful teas to choose from, here are the most popular. Don’t be afraid to try something new! Peppermint Good for stress relief, peppermint tea minimises the symptoms of abdominal gas and bloating, nausea (without vomiting) and it freshens your breath. Ginger Another great digestive reliever, ginger helps with nausea, vomiting, and upset stomachs due to motion sickness, lung congestion, and arthritis. Make fresh ginger tea by simmering a piece of root ginger on the stove for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also add fresh lemon juice and honey when you have a cold for a powerful germ fighting combination. Chamomile Chamomile is known to help treat insomnia because of its sedative and calming properties. It’s also an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory. Rosehip As the fruit of the rose plant, rosehip is one of the best sources of vitamin C, which is important for the immune system, skin and it acts as a liver, kidney and blood tonic.

Rooibos High in vitamin C and antioxidants, roobiod tea had antiageing properties and helps ward off skin complaints. Lemon Balm Lemon balm is great for lifting your spirits and improving your concentration. Milk Thistle and Dandelion When consumed as tea, milk thistle and dandelion act as a liver cleanser. This helps the liver to function at a higher capacity. Slippery Elm Slippery elm relieves stomach cramps and gastrointestinal problems. Chrysanthemum This tea is very sweet tasting and reduces body heat from a fever. Chrysanthemum tea helps protect against liver damage and neutralises toxins. Green Tea I could not get through my day without my green tea. It contains something called polyphenols which is a natural antioxidant. The health benefits are immense. Green tea is great for burning fat because it speeds up the metabolism, gives you bags and bags of energy, boosts your immunity, lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, reduces the severity of arthritis, protects you against cancer and prevents bad breath because of its antibacterial agents. Need I say more? You could choose a couple of herbal teas and mix and match throughout the day. If you won’t be parted from your cafetière, then you could incorporate herbal teas into your day as well to reduce your caffeine intake. Another great reason to drink herbal teas instead of water from the tap is that warm water will enter your system quicker and more efficiently than cold water. So with a switch to herbal tea, the benefits are endless.

Ginseng

Ginseng stimulates vitality and helps the body stay healthy in general.

Want to lose weight and keep it off? Change bad eating habits for life: if so call absolutely flab u less on 07792421080 Email: melanietaffs7@ gmail.com

EdgeMagazine

ENHANCE THE NATURAL YOU At Air Aesthetics Lucinda Bunn

here is a middle ground in beauty; treatments that live between a facial and plastic surgery. And these treatments aren’t invasive. Instead, they use cutting edge technology to enhance the natural you. If you weren’t aware that this technology existed, you should know that it’s available at Air Aesthetics in Henley-in-Arden.

SEE the results.…with Coolsculpting

The aim at Air Aesthetics is to roll back the clock and keep things natural. Dr Claire Oliver is the cosmetic practitioner delivering results with state of the art treatments at her clinic. As a firm believer in the concept of ‘less is more’, Dr Oliver takes a fresh and modern approach to cosmetic treatment; a reflection of her extensive training. Dr Oliver has tried and tested her treatments and it’s her personal experiences with the procedures which make her expertise so special. Dr Oliver knows how the technology works and how it can work for you.

E F F E C T I V E….20-30% reduction in fat from 30 days

Air Aesthetics have the products and procedures to make you feel good and look fabulous. The high tech skin treatments include the 18-week Obagi system which involves applying products in the morning and at night which peel and rejuvenate your skin safely. The active ingredients stop your skin from producing too much pigment, taking out any existing excess pigmentation, as well as softening wrinkles and rejuvenating skin in as little as 4 weeks. If you’re looking to overcome your body hang-ups but surgery isn’t for you, then CoolSculpting is the solution. Using innovative technology, Cryolipolysis to target and freeze fat cells, Coolsculpting has been FDA * approved and it’s backed by more than 20 published clinical papers. The Coolsculpting device is non-invasive and after 90 days you’ll see the final results with up to 40% fat reduction. At Air Aesthetics in Henley-in-Arden, the treatments are non-aggressive and the results look natural. Dr Oliver uses revolutionary technology to revolutionise the way you see yourself. *US Food & Drug Administration which requires stringent clinical evidence as to the safety and effectiveness of products. Dr Claire Oliver B.D.S

S A F E…. Coolsculpting is FDA approved E A S Y….One hour treatment with no downtime

The benefits of Obagi… > Obagi restores tighter, smoother and more radiant skin > It’s suitable for all skin types > Obagi is a great treatment for those who have blemish-prone skin, wrinkles and sun damage > The Blue Peel can be specifically tailored to your needs > Obagi will return your skin’s youthful tone and texture

Air Aesthetics is right for you if…. > You want a natural look > You want long-lasting results without surgery

To find out more about the treatment at Air Aesthetics, go to www.airaesthetics.co.uk

121 High Street Henley-in-Arden Warwickshire B95 5AU 0845 519 5377

Stubborn fat has met its match.

Freeze your fat away.

CoolSculpting is the revolutionary body contouring treatment that freezes and naturally eliminates fat from your body. There are no needles and best of all – no downtime. ®

CoolSculpting is FDAcleared, safe and clinically proven.

BEFORE

60 DAYS AFTER ONE COOLSCULPTING® TREATMENT

Call us today on 0845 519 5377 or visit www.airaesthetics.co.uk to arrange your FREE consultation.

Procedure byBruce Van Natta, MD

Transform yourself without surgery.

EdgeMagazine

BILLESLEY MANOR HEALTH CLUB A spa steeped in history Lucinda Bunn

ith Mother’s Day just around the corner, you might like to treat your mum to the Champagne Package at Billesley Manor. At just £45, the Champagne Package includes two mini treatments choosing from a facial, manicure, pedicure or a back, neck and shoulder massage, full use of the spa facilities and afternoon tea. Billesley Manor is a luxury country house hotel, near Stratford-upon-Avon. In fact, Billesley Manor has its very own Shakespearean connection. Set in the grounds of the hotel you will find All Saint’s Church, which dates back in parts to the 11th century and tradition has it that William Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway there. Shakespeare is also believed to have used the library in the old Manor House to pen his plays. As a guest at Billesley Manor you can enjoy a spa day that’s steeped in history. The Health Club at Billesley features a fitness studio, indoor heated swimming pool, aqua fitness classes, sauna, steam room, tennis courts, beauty rooms and class studio. The spa bistro serves healthy snacks and beverages all day and you can enjoy your Champagne afternoon tea in the bistro or in the cosy hotel bar. At Billesley Manor Hotel you’ll enjoy the ceremony of afternoon tea. You can stay warm by the fire after your treatments in the leather chairs in the bar and try the homemade scones, pastries and dainty finger sandwiches. There’s a great choice of fresh leaf brew teas; Earl Grey, Moroccan Mint, lemon and ginger, fruit punch or traditional English Breakfast.

The team at Billesley Manor is friendly and fun, which makes a day at the health club relaxing and enjoyable. For the Champagne package, you can spend an hour, a day or as long as you want using the facilities and chilling out in the pool area. There are loungers to relax, unwind and catch up with some reading. Once you’ve enjoyed a Champagne Package at Billlesley Manor, you’ll no doubt be tempted by the full health club membership. As a member at Billesley Manor, you can make full use of the gym and the fitness classes which range from body blitz and yoga, to core conditioning and legs, bums and tums. The team offer beauty treatments ranging from Decléor facials, gel polish manicures and pedicures, waxing, reflexology, body wraps and massage. Billesley Manor is a laidback health club with packages tailored to you. If you’re organising your hen do or you’re looking for a little time out, Billesley Manor with all its historical quirks is reasonably priced and surrounded by acres of beautiful Warwickshire countryside. Billesley Manor Alcester Nr Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire B49 6NF Tel: 01789 279955 www.pumahotels.co.uk

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

THROUGH THE LENS A photographer’s guide to wedding bliss Lucinda Bunn

n the past decade, we’ve seen an explosion of some of the most beautiful and inspiring wedding photography since it became tradition. There aren’t many other types of photography that require such a high degree of versatility because, even with their common threads, every wedding is different. A wedding photographer, as an artist, sees what others don’t. With experience behind the camera, a trusted wedding photographer has an eye for what works. So we caught up with wedding photographer Barbara Burton to get her take on weddings, through the lens. What makes a wedding fun to shoot? The weddings that are most fun to shoot are those with life and character. I love going to an amazing venue and finding the best angles for landscapes and indoor spaces. What makes my job easier is when a location has personality. I particularly like shooting in gardens with their individual features.

Which dress styles look best on camera? In terms of colour, from bright white to ivory and cream, with a good camera it doesn’t matter. I would say that shinier fabrics often work against the camera and the light but luckily most brides are opting for more matte fabrics at the moment. What’s more chic; delicate details or bold statements? Delicate details are wonderful because you can pick them out with the camera to really highlight the intimacy of a wedding but I do also think you have to go for it with colour. There’s so much black and white around, you need something to really make your wedding pop. I have photographed weddings with royal blue, fuschia and tangerine and they’re always stunning both in photographs and on the day. I say, just go for it!

www.edgemagazine.org

Should colourways be contrasting or complementary?

me are antique fountains in a topiary garden.

The theme often dictates the colourway you choose. Some weddings I’ve photographed have used two contrasting colours and others work around a complementary trio. So for a nature inspired wedding I photographed, there were lots of green hues which created interest and looked fantastic in the summer. I think both options work and you should let your theme guide you.

As a photographer, how do you make a wedding stand out?

Is it more important for the bride and groom to practise poses or do what comes naturally? A good, experienced photographer will either find the shots that work for you or they’ll direct you. But it’s all about being relaxed and having a good time. Leave it to your photographer and trust their portfolio. In your opinion, which venues don’t work? The venues that don’t work are those without character. A building that lacks intrigue is impossible to photograph well. It doesn’t need to be a mansion or a cathedral, just somewhere of interest. Trees add depth and balance the composition of a photograph, so they’re good too. Which features make the most romantic images? Fairy lights, lanterns, flowers and personalised accents look really romantic on camera. But most romantic to

Well, it depends on the theme. With experience, I think any photographer will find the angles to enhance your wedding on camera and create an impact with the images. I work with the theme to create photographs that tell a story. A wedding I recently shot had a 50s theme, so it was all-out vintage. I used effects to create fantastic black and white photos that really highlighted the individuality of the wedding. From your experience, what are the best wedding tips you’ve picked up as a photographer? My first tip for the bride and groom is to buy your own confetti. Have your groomsmen and bridesmaids throw the confetti as you leave the ceremony. These ‘confetti shots’ are always so beautiful. I would also recommend minimising the number of formal group photos you have planned. The guests get bored and it’s not ideal to have that waiting time outside when the weather’s so unpredictable. www.barbaraburtonphotography.co.uk 01905 354886

EdgeMagazine

SUPER STRAIGHT AND CENTRE PARTED Mode’s Martin Crean on London Fashion Week Martin Crean

he eyes of the world were on London recently as London Fashion Week kicked off. It was exciting to see the latest major trends that will be taking over the season and it brought back memories of my experience working backstage at the shows last September. I’ll be honest, it wasn’t all glamour. I had to work under considerable pressure; long hours and a lot of stress. As a session stylist, I adhere to a specific brief provided by the designer and work in accordance with strict timeslots. The hair had to be strong and creative and it was essential that the technical standards were world class. The hair had to complement the clothes without over-shadowing them so the balance had to be just right. There was no room for error, with a huge audience and the raw unedited images went viral within minutes. Nevertheless, it was an incredible experience. The atmosphere was amazing and it was a real privilege to be a part of such a prestigious event.

Naturally Dishevelled This is a really cool, edgy look. The trick is to make it look like it has taken no effort at all. The hair should be blowdried upside down to create as much volume as possible. You can add a little dry shampoo for that extra boost. Spray with a sea-salt spray to enhance your natural texture.

This year, I’ve enjoyed London Fashion Week from the other side of the curtain with a new appreciation for what goes into each show from behind the scenes. Here are my top London Fashion Week hair trends to look out for: Ponytails To be worn with a simple centre parting and a sleek finish, or with a deep side parting and texture. Either way they look great with a sharp fringe for contrast. 1920s Inspired This is perfect for a glamorous evening event. Braid the hair into two plaits, wrap one around the other creating a figure of eight and pin in place. Super Straight and Centre Parted This should look immaculate so keep up with your regular trims to keep it looking fresh. Apply a little serum to wet hair and blow dry with a paddle brush. Create a centre parting, spritz a little heat defence spray and run through with the hair straighteners. Spray hairspray directly onto the palms of your hands and smooth the hair from the roots to the ends.

Mode & M Spa, Lapstone, Westington Hill. GL55 6EG 01386 841123

Hair by Martin Crean at Mode Photos by Richard Miles

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

www.edgemagazine.org

STYLE IS ETERNAL Golightly on trends Meg Hanlon

ands up if you rush out to buy all the latest trends... No? Me neither. So, what exactly is the point of these ever changing fashions?

These days, the thought of buying anything only for it to be thrown away a short time later feels wholly wrong, both in terms of environment and economics. I’m sure I’m not the only one who thinks twice about whether or not a Burberry Prorsum inspired metallic trench coat really is a ‘must-have’. I’ve never believed in the need to be a dedicated follower of fashion, as I think that the priority is to choose clothes that suit you and make you feel good about yourself. Plus what we wear should be a reflection of who we are inside, not what the fashionistas float down the catwalk. As Yves Saint-Laurent, one of the most influential designers ever, puts it “fashions fade, style is eternal”. And I couldn’t agree more.

"Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way you live". - Gianni Versace So does that mean we can ignore fashion and just wear the same outfits year in, year out? Well no, not really, unless you want to look older than you are, which generally doesn’t happen beyond the age of 21. If you want to stay looking and therefore feeling, youthful and fresh then updating your appearance with the seasons is the way forward. The recipe for success is understanding your own style and knowing the shapes that suit you - stick with the formula and then just add a splash of the latest colour and a sprinkling of a new trend. That way you can maintain your personal style and enjoy the seasonal trends. My ultimate style icon, Audrey Hepburn, not only defined gamine at a time of curvy blonde bombshells but also created one of the most iconic looks of all time in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), portraying Givenchy’s

gowns with a timeless elegance. She also knew exactly what suited her figure and even had her favourite designer modify an evening dress for the film Sabrina (1954), to cover the hollows behind her collarbone. Audrey knew how to make fashion work for her.

“Why change? Everyone has his own style. When you have found it, you should stick to it”. - Audrey Hepburn Even if you’re not lucky enough to have a couturier on hand to design your dresses, it’s easy to work with what you’ve got, as long as you know what works for you. There are lots of bold stripes around now, which work best on straighter figures so curvy ladies need to opt for softer patterns and fabrics. Slash neck dresses and neckline embellishments will do wonders to balance out broader hips. And if you fancy brightening up with some yellow but are not cut out for head to toe citrus, then a coloured clutch will lift your outfit without overwhelming it. So, who needs fashion? We all do. It stops us from stagnating and is also good for the economy. It reflects the spirit of the time and defines eras - but it doesn’t define us. Our personalities do. Update your style with it, have fun with it but don’t be a slave to it.

Meg Hanlon Leading Stylist, Colour Me Beautiful www.changeyourlook.co.uk 01684 773166 Twitter: @CMBStylistMeg Facebook: Colour Me Beautiful - Meg Hanlon Change Your Look, Change Your Life

EdgeMagazine

NETWORK IN THE CITY Birmingham Insurance Institute brings young professionals together

he Birmingham Insurance Institute Young Professionals Committee, the city’s most prominent networking group for young insurance professionals, is hosting its flagship Networking event at Itihaas in the heart of the city’s Colmore Business District on Tuesday 19th March. With the aim of bringing together young professionals from across the region’s insurance and professional services community, the Committee provides networking opportunities and coordinates an exciting programme of social and fundraising events throughout the year to support local causes. Priti Modi of Lorica Insurance Brokers headed up the event with the help of the young professionals and Bii. Priti wanted to launch the event to highlight the young talent in the city. This year’s event, which is sponsored by Ace Group, BHSF Limited and Idex Consulting, is open to young professionals from across the region both within and outside of the insurance community and includes dinner at one of the region’s finest Asian eateries. Not only will there be a host of networking opportunities, the event will also include a keynote session with Nick Holzherr, finalist in the 2012 of the BBC’s The Apprentice and co-founder of Whisk, a unique online service that is revolutionising the way people choose recipes, purchase ingredients and plan their meals. As well as offering a unique ‘behind the scenes’ insight into his Apprentice experience, Nick will provide attendees with an invaluable overview of setting up and running a new business venture in the current commercial environment and pass on the key lessons that he has learnt along the way. Geoff Guerin, Head of the Young Professionals Committee has extended a warm invitation to young professionals from across the region. ‘Our March event promises to be a fantastic evening and we are pleased to welcome young professionals from across the Midlands who wish to attend. Not only are we hosting a night of networking and fine food but Nick’s experience on The Apprentice and his business ventures to date will provide a very useful insight for our young professionals’. ‘As a graduate of Aston University, Nick’s career is very much a ‘local’ success story and what better venue to

host our March event than Itihaas located in the heart of Birmingham and widely praised for pioneering exquisite Indian cuisine in the Midlands’.

Registration for the event is open now with tickets priced at £25.00 per attendee including dinner. For more information about the event or to register, please contact the BII Office on 0121 665 6900 or by email at office@cii-bii.co.uk by Tuesday 12 March 2013. Alternatively, search ‘Birmingham Insurance Institute’ on Google to book a place online.

www.edgemagazine.org

LUNCH IS SERVED At the Hyatt Regency Hannah Griffiths

hen it comes to deciding how to satisfy your stomach rumble on a busy day at work, you might think of the closest panini joint, the nearest fast food restaurant or the local pub. You might not think of one of Birmingham’s premier hotels, but you should. The Hyatt is opening its doors to the busy professionals of Birmingham and inviting them to tickle their taste buds with their new 2 course business lunch menu. Located just a short walk from the city’s business hotspot Brindleyplace, The Hyatt makes the perfect spot for a lunchtime stop and a break away from the office. Lunch is served in The Aria restaurant nestled between neoclassical pillars and under the unique glass atrium, creating a calm atmosphere as you take a seat, carefully selected by the maître d’. With a different business dish served each day, the Hyatt’s latest lunchtime offering is set to fill your lunch hour with delicious, healthy food; try cucumber in a creamy crème fraiche and dill sauce, followed by crisp, succulent sea bass served on a bed of curcuma rice. Each dish is carefully crafted and served by the hotel’s new head chef, Heiko Reichel. Heiko is the brains behind the Hyatt’s newest concept. With an impressive background in worldly cuisine, Heiko is inspired by his travels to Dubai, Moscow, Norway, Berlin and his home country of Germany. Heiko is no stranger to making his mark on a number of different menus using a variety of local and regional produce to ensure that the food he chooses is ‘fresh from the field and onto the plate’. Heiko walks through the market to get ideas and believes in using seasonal and regional produce. Preferring to sculpt the menu around the season, choosing light and colourful dishes during the summer and changing to darker and heavier during the winter, Heiko ensures that the menus are kept simple and short and of the highest quality. Heiko and the team at the Hyatt have created a business lunch menu that injects some fun with fine-dining into your working lunch. The Hyatt’s new business lunch is available Monday to Saturday, priced at an affordable £12.50 for two courses including tea and coffee, filling your lunch hour perfectly with just enough time to head back to the office. If the daily dish doesn’t suit you, a number of alternatives can be served from the à la carte menu so everyone’s happy.

2 Bridge Street, Birmingham B1 2JZ Tel: 0121 643 1234

EdgeMagazine www.edgemagazine.org

54 EdgeMagazine

1st Birthday Edition

December 2012/January 2013

1st Birthday Edition

December 2012/January 2013

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine 55

EdgeMagazine

THE EASTER BUNNY A feminist heroine Lucinda Bunn

n the run up to Easter, I found myself on my very own ‘egg’ hunt for the undiscovered. Well, undiscovered to me. I stumbled upon DuBose Heyward’s The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes (1939), a children’s story of the Easter Bunny with a difference. It’s a fairly obvious pre-Easter pick, to reel out the various bunny heroes of literary greats gone by. Nobody could forget Alice’s quest to pin down the White Rabbit, or Peter Rabbit’s escapades in Mr McGregor’s garden. We wouldn’t ever mention bunnies without a tribute to The Velveteen Rabbit and Watership Down. But these rabbits were never the Easter Bunny now were they? And neither were Flopsy, Mopsy or Cottontail. The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes tells the tale of a little brown-skinned girl rabbit with big dreams of becoming the Easter Bunny. ‘We hear of the Easter Bunny who comes each Easter before sunrise to bring eggs for boys and girls and we think there is only one’, begins storyteller Heyward. Not so, he tells the reader. There are in fact five Easter Bunnies and each must cover vast territories. The Easter Bunnies must be the kindest, swiftest and wisest bunnies in the whole wide world. The Country Bunny is told by the ‘big white bunnies who live in fine houses’ and ‘Jack Rabbits with long legs’ to ‘go back to the country and eat a carrot’. By the by she had a husband and one day, much to her surprise there were twenty-one Cottontail baby bunnies to take care of. But the Country Bunny doesn’t defer her dreams for long. She raises twenty one industrious, self-sufficient baby bunnies who keep her house in order and her dreams finally come true when the Grandfather Rabbit has to replace one of the Easter Bunnies and of course he chooses our heroine for her bravery, strengthened and refined, of course, by raising almost two dozen rabbits. It’s remarkable that this modern feminist tale was originally written in 1939. When you consider that Heyward grew up in Charleston, South Carolina at the turn of the century, you realise just how special this children’s book truly is. The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes is a tale of perseverance, kindness and courage. Its lyrical writing and fuel for the imagination make it a timeless classic to be enjoyed by all ages. With a sense of humour, DuBose Heyward tells us that plucky little girl bunnies who defy prejudice and believe in themselves can grow up to become fully actualised rabbits who raise smart, happy, kind children and do fulfilling work outside the warren. The history goes that

DuBose Heyward used to tell the story to his daughter, Jenifer, at bedtime before he actually committed it to paper; assuming that he wanted her to celebrate individualism, talent, equality and compassion from a young age. Marjorie Flack’s expressive illustrations are a lovely accompaniment to DuBose Heyward’s classic text. They’re glowing and colourful, in a gentle and quietly happy way. Heyward’s Easter classic is a revolutionary piece you could read with your children at some point on the literary ladder. Maybe you could start a new Easter tradition. This isn’t just a book for girls either; it’s a reassuring story of dreams, hope and defying stereotypes that speaks to everyone. The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes has, by all accounts, quite a following, although I haven’t found anyone else who knows it. I wish I’d read it as a child but it’s not too late. I’ve found this charming book to be quite the Easter treat.

The County Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes by DuBose Heyward, Illustrated by Marjorie Flack (Boston:HMH,1939)

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

CHOCOLATE DELI Our Easter pick Lucinda Bunn

53 New Street Worcester WR1 2DL 01905 611324

coffee shop is a place to meet friends and relax over delicious hot drinks, beautiful cakes and pastries. Chocolate Deli, on Worcester’s New Street, more than fits the bill. Chocolate Deli is primarily a chocolate shop, with handcrafted treats and creations made by the talented chocolatiers at Chocolate Deli’s sister shop in Hanbury. But at New Street, you can sit down and sample the delights of speciality hot chocolates and homemade rocky road brownies. If Easter is your favourite holiday, and for most chocolate lovers it probably is, then take a trip to Chocolate Deli and taste the wonders of real, handmade chocolate. The team of chocolatiers, based in the Hanbury chocolate kitchen, skillfully whip up their scrumptious range using Barry Callebaut’s artisan inspired products. Imagine row upon row of delicately arranged chocolates, each with their very own personality. There’s violet cream, unmistakeable with purple petal on top, peppermint with a mint coloured foil wrapper and a fondant centre, strawberry and pepper with speckled splashes of pink and the Jack Daniels truffle, dark and mysterious. The team at Chocolate Deli are going to be busy over the Easter period, making their personalised chocolate bunnies. Each bunny consists of about 1.5 kilograms of the finest chocolate, set in huge Easter bunny moulds. You’ll be amazed. You can have a personalised message written on your bunny’s belly for just £30. Or you could go all out this Easter and opt for the superhero Easter bunny

with his mask and cape made from red chocolate paste for £40. They take about a week to make and each chocolate bunny is made especially for you, so get your order in soon. The coffee shop at Chocolate Deli is up the stairs, a step away from the front of house with an additional lounge area and comfy seats on the top floor. In the coffee shop, the light bulb bunting and exposed brick walls are modern and stylish. There’s no hustle and bustle at Chocolate Deli, it’s a quiet, peaceful meeting place for friends, readers and writers to come together in their love for chocolate. All the cakes, and there’s an impressive selection, are handmade with melt-in-themouth chocolate extras. The hot chocolate is made with real chocolate, not powder and topped with a peak of whipped cream. The coffee comes in one cup; there’s no grande or venti here, just the optimum size for the strength and flavour of the coffee. You can see the passion and love that goes into each order and the pride that comes with serving homemade treats. And that’s the difference between the Chocolate Deli coffee shop and its corporate counterparts. Chocolate Deli hosts a chocolate experience, from the fun chocolate pizzas, to the frivolous chocolate stiletto shoes. The Chocolate Deli team have quality, flavour and their customers at the heart of their craft.

www.edgemagazine.org

Pottery Painting • Parties Baby Hand & Foot Prints Doggie Paw Prints

SP ECI

AL OF

Chi ldr ER ! p a rt i e n's es S

ave £

12 Bo o mo re k f o r 10 o r a f re e wn d ge t o ne ith th is a d ve r t. The Pottery Paint Shop 36 West Street, War wick CV34 6AN 01926 258087

Luxury Handmade Chocolates Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Hanbury Road, Bromsgrove B60 4BU Tel: 01527 821693 53 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DL. Tel 01905 611324 www.chocolatedeli.uk.com • info@chocolatedeli.biz

www.thepotterypaintshop.co.uk Email: contactus@thepotterypaintshop.co.uk

Treat your loved one to an afternoon of pampering At Billesley Manor Hotel... Your champagne package will include two of the following treatments: • Mini manicure • Mini pedicure • Back, neck and shoulder massage • Mini Facial

Plus: • Champagne afternoon tea • Use of the leisure facilities • Robes and slippers for the day

All for just £49 per person Call today 01789 767100 to book your place. Alcester, Nr Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire B49 6NF email billesleymanor.leisure@pumahotels.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply. Pre-booking is required. Offer only available Sunday - Thursday 11am - 5pm.

EdgeMagazine

MAKE THE MOST OF THE EASTER HOLIDAYS Fun for the kids in the three counties Hannah Griffiths

ondering what to do with the kids this Easter? Well don’t panic, we’ve found lots to see, do and enjoy in your region, with events and attractions that are sure to keep the kids entertained and the parents stress free. See the sea lions at West Midlands Safari Park West Midlands Safari Park has once again opened its doors to the public for yet another season of actionpacked animal antics. As well as enjoying a four mile self-drive safari, seeking out one of the largest cheetah groups in the country and the endangered Sumatran Tiger, there’s plenty to see on foot. Discovery Cove houses a variety of great all-weather attractions including Twilight Cave, Creepy Crawlies and the sea-lion show. For those adrenaline junkiesout there, the amusement park is packed full of fun rides and attractions. Why not enjoy your Easter Sunday lunch with the animals at the Safari Park’s very own Spring Grove House? Including a threecourse meal, an Easter egg for each child and a friendly encounter with the animals, the Safari Park caters to the whole family this Easter. Lunch will be served between 12pm-2pm, priced at £15.95 for children and £25.95 for adults. Booking for this event is essential and for further information and to keep up with the Park’s official news, visit www.wmsp.co.uk Get crafty with the History Detectives at St John’s Museum, Warwick Warwickshire County Council Heritage and Culture team are once again running their popular holiday club

this Easter. ‘The History Detective Agency’ is guaranteed to keep the children entertained as they play games, get crafty and unravel the mysteries of the past with a different case each day. Children aged between 6 and 12 can dive head first into the fun unravelling clues from history using real and replica objects and documents. Three sessions are being run at the holiday club this Easter. Rocks and Fossils will see children unravel the landscape of Warwickshire from rocks and fossils that are millions of year old and found in our county. Lights, Camera, Action will discover how people have been taking photographs and making films for over a hundred years and giving the children a chance to make a simple camera for themselves. Science of Colour looks at how colour has affected our daily lives throughout history, examining how people created colours for clothes and art work. Places are limited and must be booked in advance. Each day costs £22 with a 20% discount applied when all three sessions are booked together. For further information and to book call 01926 412069. Find the wild goose eggs at Avoncroft Museum Avoncroft Museum, home to over 27 different structures which have been rebuilt in rural Worcestershire, is an ideal destination for those wanting to embrace a day out filled with culture and history. Spread across 19 acres, Avoncroft is home to a wildflower meadow, period gardens and a traditional cider and perry orchard, as well as a collection of restored buildings. Over the past five decades, the museum has rescued numerous structures and now displays and cares for 25 historic buildings. Visitors to the museum will be able to enjoy the peaceful

www.edgemagazine.org

countryside, explore historic buildings and discover the past. This Easter visitors are invited to join in the fun at Avoncroft as part of their Easter Fun Days. Taking place during Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, visitors can enjoy living history displays, traditional children’s games, family activities, archery and pony rides. From the Vikings to the Victorians there will be something for everyone to enjoy at Avoncroft this Easter. Alongside Avoncroft’s Easter Fun Days, the museum is also hosting a Wild Goose Trail from the 30th March-7th April giving visitors the chance to explore the site as they follow clues to locate the wild goose eggs and claim a prize. For further information visit www.avoncroft.org.uk Enjoy face-painting and fun at Hanbury Hall Built in 1701 by Thomas Vernon, a lawyer and Whig MP for Worcester, Hanbury Hall is a beautiful country house. Surrounded by 20 acres of recreated early 18th century gardens and 400 acres of park, including an intricately laid out parterre, fruit garden, grove, orangery, orchard and bowling green, Hanbury Hall is an iconic building set in the heart of the English countryside. Inside, a mix of interiors are set to be discovered, from the recently redecorated smoking room and restored Hercules rooms, to the stunning staircase wall-paintings by Sir James Thornhill, every inch of Hanbury Hall carries a charming historical elegance. This Easter, Hanbury Hall is hosting a fun-filled Easter Weekend. With Easter themed trails, hands-on activities and free face painting sponsored by Cadbury’s, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. For further information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hanbury-hall

EdgeMagazine

AN ALL-GIRLS EDUCATION Dodderhill School’s results speak for themselves

he Droitwich Spa based school is among the top schools of the leader board in Worcestershire, yet some parents still worry that their daughters need to be mixing with boys at school to experience gender difference in society. Dodderhill School has been an independent girls’ school for over 45 years and many of its girls have gone on to lead successful lives and have had no problems mixing with the opposite sex because of their education. An all-girls school gives your daughter the chance to have equal opportunities and be judged on her own merits. At Dodderhill, each girl is treated as an individual, allowing her to reach her full potential in whatever fields she chooses. Without the presence of boys in the classroom, many girls go on to excel at subjects such as maths and science, which are traditionally male dominated. In addition, sport plays a huge role as part of girls’ education, with many playing sport competitively, alongside the curriculum, enhancing their school life. Cate Mawston, headmistress of Dodderhill School, says, ‘Girls will perform better being taught separately because women think and operate differently. Knowing this means our lesson styles are designed so that the girls get the most from them and are stimulated’. ‘Girls tend to be more conscientious and settle quickly into work. By not having boys in the classroom environment, they can focus on their work, rather than feeling embarrassed on what the opposite sex thinks’. To learn more about how your daughter can benefit from an all-girls education from age 8 -16, visit the school’s open day on Monday 11th March. For more information visit www.dodderhill.co.uk

“ Tomorrow I will be even better than today.” Today Melissa is conducting an experiment. Her ambition is to become a medical physicist and help improve lives in the third world. At Dodderhill Senior School in Droitwich, girls aged 11-16 grow to become inspiring leaders. A highly challenging curriculum also prepares them for the most competitive sixth forms in the area. In fact, our GCSE results consistently rank Dodderhill as one of Worcestershire’s top schools. Bursaries available for up to full fees.

What could your daughter achieve tomorrow? Visit www.dodderhill.co.uk or call 01905 778290.

OPEN DAY

Monday 11th March

or call 01905 790623. Inspiring academic and creative success

Droitwich, Worcestershire, WR9 0BE.

CHIC Edge March 2012:Layout 1

2/2/12

14:32

Page 1

The Chic Boutique

HAIR & BEAUTY LOUNGE

A completely new concept in hair and beauty under one roof. All the latest treatments from top-to-toe, in complete luxury and tranquil settings at affordable prices. Specialist hair boutique including:

• Human and synthetic hair extensions and pony-tails (fitting available) • Custom-made and stock wigs • Hair replacement

Beauty lounge with specialist treatments which include: • • • • • • • • •

Botox and fillers Collagen red light therapy Massage Spray tans Facials and make up Foot treatments Microdermabrasion Non-surgical face lifts Holistic treatments

FREE CONSULTATIONS Treat someone special GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE ... walk out looking and feeling like a new you For more information or to make an appointment call:

01527 64953 30 Kingfisher Walk Kingfisher Shopping Centre Redditch, Worcestershire B97 4EY (Next to Thorntons)

www.thechichairboutique.co.uk

www.edgemagazine.org

www.serenityrose.co.uk March Luxury Spa Break, Day Spa & Treatments Offers Ideal Gifts for Mothers Day & Easter all available as vouchers

Couples Escape Break - 1 Night Romantic Spa Break Package For 2 £299 - Full English Breakfast, Lunch, Exclusive Hydro Spa Massage, Peppermint Salt Body Polish & Mud Steam Treatment, Hot Stone Back Massages.

Bookable Mon - Fri Delicious Detox Spa Day £80 Lovely treatments, organic Spa products, lunch.

Bookable Mon - Fri Ila Spa Retreat £ 79 Energising Salt Body Scrub & Herbal Steam with Chakra balancing music. ila Kundalini Back Treatment

Rose Spa Day for 2 - £160 per couple (Book any day subject to availability) • Exclusive Hydro Spa Massage • Peppermint Salt Body Polish & Rose Herbal Steam • Lunch & Refreshments • Rose & Ylang Ylang Full Body Massages Ila Ananda Face Treatment £59 (Book any day subject to availability) This treatment uses delicate techniques to open the energy centers of the face, working with the body’s blissful higher energy to induce feelings of deep peace and beautifully glowing skin.

See our Website for Full Details, Guest Reviews, more about our Wellness Breaks, Wonderful Spa Treatments and Specialist Spa Days

Serenity Rose Spa Near Malvern Hanley Road Upton upon Severn Worcestershire

T: 01684 594 686

www.SerenityRoseSpa.co.uk

EdgeMagazine

THE LOCAL KITCHEN Everything that's cooking in the three counties Louis Barnett’s new cola chocolate bars hit the shelves Visionary master chocolatier and the brains behind Chokolit, Louis Barnett, is bringing out new bars with additional fizz. Louis has created caramel and cola bars and white chocolate and cola fizz. Just in time for Easter, Louis’ new bars are set to tantalise your taste buds. Louis has been an innovator in his industry for almost a decade and has received many awards. Louis says, ‘the new products are about pushing the boundaries of my creativity, the more you understand your ingredients the more you can innovate’. With more ideas in the pipeline, we’re excited to see what Louis comes up with next. www.louisbarnettchocolates.com

Adam Bennett receives two trophies at the Bocuse d’Or competition in Lyon UK candidate Adam Bennett and commis chef Kristian Curtis from Michelin-starred restaurant Simpsons, in Birmingham, reached the highest place ever for Team UK in the world’s most prestigious chef competition, the Bocuse d’Or last month. The team put in a fantastic performance and reached fourth place, just six points away from a place on the coveted podium. Midlands-born chef, Bennett, head chef at Simpsons, led the team to win the special award for the Best Meat Platter, while Kristian Curtis, was awarded the prize for Best Commis. It is the seventh time France has won the Bocuse d’Or, which sees 24 countries from around the world compete for the title in a five and a half hour cook off. Emma Gray, Director of Marketing Services at Visit Birmingham, says, ‘Adam is a true ambassador for Birmingham’s celebrated food scene – competing at the world final of Bocuse d’Or has been a fantastic achievement and will help to raise the city’s profile further on the international culinary stage’. www.simpsonsrestaurant.co.uk

The Alscot Estate develops a taste for British cheese Jowett Cheese is a brand new artisan cheesemaking business brought to you by David Jowett, based on the Alscot Estate. The new raw milk cheese will be called Jowett and made in the style of continental mountain cheeses. David is looking to launch in May. Jowett Cheese will be available at regional farmer’s markets and food events. David will also be producing a small amount of an individual lactic cheese called Alscot. Ideal for grilling or baking, Alscot will be made especially for restaurants in the area. Both cheeses will be made using the same organic, single-herd milk, creating flavours that are influenced by the natural characteristics of the raw milk. www.jowettcheese.co.uk

www.edgemagazine.org

Hillers Farm Shop becomes regional champion for local food Hillers Farm Shop of Dunnington, near Alcester, is celebrating being crowned regional champions for local food in this year’s Countryside Alliance Rural Oscars. The Countryside Alliance Awards started life in 2005 as the Best Rural Retailer competition, supporting and promoting rural communities and celebrating outstanding local businesses. The judges commented, ‘Hillers never stands still – the team is constantly evolving and changing the business and adding to it. They just love the place and that’s clear from the produce and the delight it brings to loyal customers’. The Hillers family are ecstatic. Fourth generation sisters, Sally and Emma said, 'we are delighted to win this prestigious award. The judges' comments really do sum up how we feel about the business. It is not easy in the recession and we know we have to do everything we can to make the most of the customers we have and we'd like to thank them all for their continued support’. The final of the awards is at the House of Lords in London, March 13th. www.hillers.co.uk

E xc eptional food at Arrow Mill Hotel & Restaurant is set in the heart of rural Warwickshire, close to Stratford upon Avon by the roman market town of Alcester and surrounded by a spectacular secluded riverside setting. The picturesque setting for Arrow Mill is outstanding and the same can be said of its location for food lovers – right on the doorstep of some of the countries finest and most sought after growers and producers. Such proximity is perfect for Chef Simon Woodhams’ culinary skills and his passion for fresh, seasonal produce.

Prix Fixe Menu Available for lunch on Tuesday-Saturday our “fresh today” fixed price menu is the perfect temptation for a relaxed weekday lunch in glorious surroundings.

2 courses @ £17.50 3 courses @ £21.50 Call us on 01789 762 419 to make a reservation.

The menu changes regularly to reflect market and seasonal variations. Alongside the A la Carte menu we also offer reasonably priced bar meals.

Call us on 01789 762 419 to make a reservation or visit our website arrowmill.com to download our menus. Arrow Mill Hotel & Restaurant, Arrow, Warwickshire B49 5NL t: 01789 762 419 f: 01789 765 170 e: eat@arrowmill.com w: arrowmill.com

EdgeMagazine

Florent Vialan - Director of Brewing

PURITY BEER New brew house in the making

uilding work has begun on a new brew house, capable of trebling the capacity of Warwickshirebased Purity Brewing Co. This landmark step marks the beginning of a six month build project that's been two years in the making.

disused barns. The building work was preceded by two years of extensive project planning and is due for completion in March.

At around £1.4 million, the new brewery is a significant investment for Purity. The project began back in 2010 when Purity submitted its initial request for planning permission.

The facility will be fitted with the latest state-of-the-art equipment, capable of producing a wide range of styles of beer. Designed and manufactured in Germany by specialists BrauKon, the kit will be shipped in a modular format and installed in a matter of weeks, ready for testing.

Paul Halsey, Managing Director, explains, ‘since launching Purity in 2005 the business has grown each year. By 2010 the brewery was fast approaching capacity, so we investigated options for future expansion. Working closely with our landlord, farmer Granville Stevens, we developed plans to renovate disused barns on the farm’.

Purity is the first all-cask ale brewery in the UK to install a BrauKon brew house. Klaus Rauchenecker of BrauKon comments, ‘the new facility will provide the highest standards of beer quality and consistency. It has been designed to deliver energy savings and reduce waste in line with Purity’s environmental values’.

Local companies Sheldon Bosely and SA Mogg Ltd were contracted to design, manufacture and renovate the

Florent Vialan, Director of Brewing at Purity, adds ‘we will start the switch over by simultaneously brewing in both

www.edgemagazine.org

old and new facilities to achieve continuity in beer quality. We hope to be brewing solely in the new brew house by the middle of the year and plan to expand the team accordinglyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Purity currently brews three award-winning beers: Pure UBU, Mad Goose and Pure Gold. Its beers can be found across the Midlands and via certain outlets nationwide. The launch of a new beer is anticipated towards the end of 2013, details of which are still to be confirmed. Watch this space........

01789 488007 sales@puritybrewing.com www.puritybrewing.com

EdgeMagazine

THE PERFECT WINE In the making Laura Clay

t’s not every day you taste 100% Cabernet Franc, especially not 100% Cabernet Franc from three different soil types. It’s almost unheard of to do exactly the same with Merlot, with all the wines coming from the Premier Grand Cru Classé A St Emilion, Château Cheval Blanc. It is in fact so out of the ordinary that it has never before been done outside of the château or by anyone other than the technical team. But here was Pierre-Oliveir Clouet, the château’s Technical Manager since 2008, presenting plot samples alongside finished wines to 75 of the great and the good of the wine world’s MWs, student MWs, educators, journalists, importers and merchants. This openness is refreshing. Pierre-Olivier explained vineyard and vinification decisions which lead to Cheval Blanc being one of the greatest wines in the world, then gave us the evidence to prove it, without any PR patter, prices or bumptiousness. His down-to-earth, clear and hugely informative presentation was a welcome relief from the usual hype. Initially we tasted 2012 sample; raw components or ingredients of the new wine to be blended, crafted and created at the end of the month. What a privilege to be able to make our very own 2012, albeit with just a fraction of the 44 plot samples the winemaking team will have at their disposal. As soil makes such a huge impact on the flavours, the grape variety being an expression of its soil, each plot in the 39 hectare Cheval Blanc farms, is vinified separately. Once fermented and pre-ageing, the wines are tasted blind. No matter where the grapes originate, whether from the lesser sandy soils or those generally offering more complexity from the gravelly plots or the concentrated more structured grapes from clay soils, will fulfil their rightful destiny and make it into the Grand Vin, otherwise they will find their way into the second wine, Le Petit Cheval or even into the third wine. In this new spirit of glasnost, not only did we taste an expressive, concentrated, fine sample of Cabernet Franc 2012 from a clay soil plot but also one from sandy soils where the wine was not of sufficient quality, showing too many green pepper notes and with unripe tannins. Its final fate will be a less glamorous one. I would not be inclined to argue with Pierre-Olivier having tasted the 2001 sample of Cabernet Franc, blended from the various plots which went into the Grand Vin, that in his opinion it is ‘the best variety in

the world’. Cabernet Franc and Merlot are the only two grapes used in Cheval Blanc and the ratio of each is totally dependent on the vintage. There is no set formula. The only rule they have is to work ‘like monks’, traditionally, toiling in the vineyards; limiting vine vigour in the Cabernet Franc and controlling yields by green harvesting the Merlot. In the winery, they only ever add sulphur, yeast and egg white but there was no suggestion of letting the wine make itself. Why spend a fortune on a truly beautiful new winery if you never actually go there? Making the perfect wine is more than a lifetime’s work. Pierre-Olivier admitted to not yet having made the perfect blend so the toiling and striving goes on. Already, over the course of fifteen years, they have developed their own Cabernet Franc clone through micro-vinification experimentation. For every vintage they retain 24 bottles of each wine which makes up the blend to assess its development over the years– there are now 6 fewer bottles of 2001–so the research, decisions and planning continue. The team at Cheval Blanc makes premium wine, selling at stratospheric prices (approximately £900 a bottle for 2010 should you wish to buy a couple of cases), yet they’re far from complacent. You feel sure that the perfect blend is within Pierre-Olivier’s grasp and tasting the 2010, he’s certainly not far away. Whether it will ever be 100% Cabernet Franc is anyone’s guess. Thank you to Yvon Mau for organising such an enlightening (not to mention delicious) tasting and to Pierre-Olivier for sharing his knowledge and insights with such candour.

Laura is an independent wine writer and presenter and runs BYWine – a club which helps its members to know more, buy better. www.bywine.co.uk

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

THE UNDERGROUND MAN: A REVIEW A novel by Ross Macdonald Mike Stafford

rime writing has an uneasy relationship with the literary establishment, so when a crime novel is re-released as a Penguin Modern Classic, you can be sure it’s a magnificent read. First released in 1971, The Underground Man is one of Ross MacDonald’s later novels, seeing MacDonald’s enduring hero Lew Archer investigate the abduction of a young boy. Against the backdrop of a raging Californian forest fire, Archer’s case takes him into the murky and tragic pasts of a cluster of wealthy families, forcing him to unearth their secrets in order to find the missing boy. In terms of writing style, MacDonald keeps it understated, but with a smattering of truly majestic flourishes: '…as if by behaving modestly and discreetly they could make the fire stay up on the mountain and die there, like an unwanted god'. While there are guns, intrigue and some romantic tension, The Underground Man is delightfully sedate and reminiscent of the bygone era in which it was written. MacDonald doesn’t need endless twists, thumping prose or noir grit. He builds suspense through making the reader invest emotionally in the characters and through his subtle building of mood. The key theme in The Underground Man is the relationship between the older generation (in this case the ‘Greatest Generation’) and the generation that follows them (the ‘baby boomers’). The sins of the father are quite literally visited on the son. The children rally against the stifling authoritarianism of their elders and deal with the fall-out of their parents’ own neuroses. As one character says: 'we’re losing a whole generation. They’re punishing us for bringing them into the world'. Growing older by the time The Underground Man was published, the protagonist, Lew Archer, is world-weary but stops short of outright cynicism. He has all the moral fortitude of the tenacious sleuth but never seems to believe that by solving the case he will be dispensing justice on any grand level. He is driven by his own

emotional commitment to the parties involved and his desire to do right by them. He refuses to sympathise with the villains of the piece but is no moral crusader. Unlike many others of his ilk, he is a gentle man, as seen when he throws nuts to a family of Blue Jays on his lawn at the opening of the book. Raymond Chandler (author of The Big Sleep) and Dashiell Hammett (author of The Maltese Falcon) are generally regarded as the greatest masters of American crime writing but for the connoisseur, Ross MacDonald can’t be beaten. Chandler and Hammett, brilliant though they were, left themselves ripe for parody. MacDonald wrote crime fiction for grown-ups. Psychologically, his characters have depth and complexity. They are all vulnerable in their own ways; a teenage girl rebels out of frustration but remains brittle and hyper-sensitive to events in the adult world; a wealthy businessman devotes his life to a fruitless search for the father who abandoned him; a ferociously protective mother attempts to shield her insecure son from reality. For such a brief book, The Underground Man brings with it profound emotion. For this reason, and many more, The Underground Man deserves its classic status.

www.edgemagazine.org

Change your roof reduce noise and cut heat loss

AFTER

Convert your conservatory

BEFORE

The Guardian Lightweight Roof is ideal for new constructions or for converting your old conservatory into a more functional room.

Plaster Interior

• The Guardian Lightweight Roof gives an impressive u-value of 0.16 • Lightweight aluminium structural frame • Choice of tile and slate colours • 10 year guarantee with life expectancy of over 50 years • Full range of colour matching fascias and soffits to suit your window frame • High quality internal finish • Easy to install to existing window frames • Reduces external noise compared to polycarbonate or glass • Keeps your conservatory snug in winter and cool in summer

Visit our website

www.totalroofcare.co.uk

FREE PHONE FOR DETAILS

0800 917 5109

A M S P R AY B U S I N E S S C E N T R E , W O R C E S T E R R O A D , K I D D E R M I N S T E R , W O R C E S T E R S H I R E D Y 1 0 1 H Y

EdgeMagazine

www.edgemagazine.org

CHASING THE DRAGON Aston Martin V8 Vantage Liam Bird

ccording to the modern marvel that is Google, it’s exactly 104 miles from my front door to the gates of Conwy Castle. The journey, if you take the direct route, should take 2 hours and 28 minutes. But on a Saturday afternoon, when there’s nothing more pressing to do than to simply go for a drive, why would anyone take the direct route? It’s not every day that you’re handed the chunky crystal Emotion Control Unit, (that’s Aston Martin’s rather pretentious name for key) to their latest V8 Vantage, so it’s only appropriate that you seek out some roads that offer more of a challenge than the North Wales Expressway on which to exercise at least some of the 420 horses that hide under its heavily vented and beautifully light hand-crafted bonnet. The Vantage’s doors swing up as well as outwards revealing a cabin that, as someone once said, “smells of money”. Everything from the seats and the dashboard, to the headlining are covered in thick, hand-stitched leather; its aroma is intoxicating. A fly-off handbrake sits

beside the aluminium sill plate and there’s just enough room behind the seats to store a briefcase or a jacket or two. The Vantage is the smallest Aston meaning its interior is a little snug, snugger still if you’re tall. Just for once being short has its advantages. Pushing that key, sorry, Emotion Control Unit, in to the Vantage’s dashboard makes it bark on start-up, before in this case, 8 cylinders settle into a menacing sounding idle. Blip the throttle, dip the weighty clutch, find first and head north. It’s clear from the outset that you have to ‘drive’ a Vantage. The gear-change requires accurate and decisive inputs; the steering feels heavy at low speeds and despite not being anywhere near as stiff as the faster Vantage S I once sampled, the whole car seems to fidget a little underneath you. The tyres too, 10mm wider for 2012 cars onwards, tend to rumble, especially on the broken B-road surfaces that blight the Shropshire Marches. Still, who wants an Aston Martin that doesn’t feel involving? A few miles of border hopping come first but it’s not long

EdgeMagazine before I’ve cleared Llangollen’s afternoon shoppers and picked up the A542. The road over the Horseshoe Pass and on towards Llandegla provides a perfect natural hillclimb course, so where better to indulge in the Vantages performance? 0-62 in 4.9 seconds and 346 lbs of torque make light work of overtaking the weekend stragglers who seem more interested in the Welsh scenery than the road ahead. At Ruthin I loop back south, taking the gloriously twisty B5105 through Clawdd-newydd and on past the Forests of Clocaenog where once the likes of Alen, Vatanen and Toivonen tamed the Group B monsters that dominated 80’s rallying. Known as the Formula 1 of the forests, even back then their cars packed more bhp than the Aston Martins of today. Turning sharp right and north again in Cerrigydrudion, I skirt the banks of Llyn Brenig as the road climbs and the light begins to fade. It’s close to freezing as I reach the top of Bryntrillyn and what was once The Sportsman’s Arms. The feedback through the thick rimmed wheel tells me, thanks to the typically Welsh weather, that the tarmac is offering all the adhesion of buttered Teflon, so, with the Vantage’s digital trip meter warning me of ice, I select sixth and find a gentler pace. Mindful of the fact that Aston Martin prefer their aluminium bodies returned unmodified, I make my way into Denbigh in order to gather my thoughts over some late afternoon tea. North again, and after passing St Asaph’s Cathedral I’ve one last landmark I want to experience before heading

home. I’m headed for the Conwy Bypass or more importantly, the road tunnel that runs underneath the river estuary. I want to hear for myself what the Vantage sounds like from the outside. Everyone else has heard it this afternoon whereas I’ve only heard it as its driver does, from the inside, (I know, how I suffer for my art!). On the approach to the tunnel, I switch on the heated seat, crank up the air-con and lower both windows, before checking the mirrors and slowing down a little. Then, because I’m not sure when this kind of opportunity will occur again, I bury the throttle.With the changeup light flickering, Aston’s entry level GT is more than capable of 70 in a second, or perhaps…ahem…a little more. My afternoon taught me that even at £84,995 the Vantage is not entirely without its faults: the sat-nav is still awkward, the column stalks are straight out of a Fiesta and the buttons for the radio are infuriatingly small. But I’m in no doubt, as I exit the tunnel and a mellifluous cacophony of noise echoes off its walls, the Vantage’s engine note is worth every single last penny on its own. Aston Martin V8 Vantage Engine: 4735cc 8Cyl 32V petrol Transmission: 6 speed Manual, rear wheel drive. Power: 420bhp @7300pm Torque: 346 lbft @5000rpm 0-62MPH: 4.9Sec Max Speed: 180mph CO2: 321g/km MPG: 21.9 combined Price: £84,995

www.edgemagazine.org

REBATE

DESIGNERS & MANUFACTURERS OF IMAGINATIVE BESPOKE TIMBER CONSERVATORIES, ORANGERIES & GARDEN ROOMS

Conservatories

Orangeries

Garden Rooms

Tel: 01562 740065 www.rebate-conservatories.co.uk Rebate Ltd Stourport Road Kidderminster Worcestershire DY11 7BD

EdgeMagazine

THE GREAT ROTATION The right investment for you Tom Ware

he recent strong performance of equity markets may have come as a surprise to many. After all, economic growth has only selectively emerged and companies must still endure a difficult climate. However, the strength of equity markets has led many commentators to start talking about a ‘great rotation’ from bonds into equities. The question for investors is whether this bonanza can endure and if so, whether they should participate. A recent Bank of America Merrill Lynch Fund Manager Survey, which asks expert investors for their views on the current investing environment, found that many were switching from bonds to equities and that market confidence was at its highest for nine years. Equally, some high profile analysts, such as Jim O’Neill at Goldman Sachs Asset Management, have said that they believe there will be resurgence in stock markets after a decade in which bonds have outperformed. In other words, the experts believe that this rally can be sustained.

The rally is supported by valuations. It is easy to forget that as recently as the early 1990s a 10-year UK government bond would pay over 10%. Since then prices have steadily risen, pushing the income lower and lower until, at the end of 2012, it reached around 1.8%. In general, corporate bonds have followed a similar trajectory, with the average UK Corporate bond fund rising another 13% in 2012. This can only go on so long. Government bonds are already losing investors’ money in real terms - they currently pay around 2%, while inflation is sitting at 2.7%. Equities in contrast look relatively good value by historic standards. Of course, there are variations depending on the region and the sector or the size, but valuations are not stretched. Equally, in many cases they look like a better source of income. For example, someone wanting to invest in GlaxoSmithKline could buy the bond, which pays an income of 0.5%-1% higher than a US government bond (around 2.5%-3%), or the shares, which pay an income of over 5%. The shares also

IMPORTANT NOTICE Past performance is not necessarily a guide to the future and the value of investments can go down as well as up. You might not get back the full amount invested particularly if an encashment is made in the early years.

www.edgemagazine.org offer the potential to participate in the growth of the company, while the bond does not. There are risks to any investment in equities and markets remain vulnerable too; in the short-term, any problems with the second round of negotiations over the fiscal cliff and in the long-term, any resumption of the crisis in Europe. The French Labour Minister, Michel Sapin, recently commented that France was bankrupt. If investors in government bonds start to draw the same conclusion, France, and by extension the Eurozone, could be in real trouble again. For the time being at least, the risks in bonds look greater. Investors have already lost almost 2% a year to date in the UK gilt sector. It no longer constitutes a ‘safe investment’ and more importantly, may not give investors the income they need to support their lifestyle in retirement. Investors should feel comfortable with the recent rise in equities and reappraise their portfolios to ensure they are not over-exposed to bonds. As always, the right investment and the right fund manager will be vital. Where in the equity market? For the past few years, the momentum in equity markets has been with large, global companies with exposure to higher growth markets such as China or India. The theory goes that these companies offered Western standard of corporate governance and risk management, with Eastern levels of growth. The trouble is, everyone has found out about it. These companies have become highly valued and, while they still offer stable earnings growth and consistent dividends, investors may find better value elsewhere. International investors are plumping for emerging markets. The latest research from EPFR Global, which monitors inflows and outflows from different funds, shows that in the week that ended 16th January, investors poured $5.83bn into emerging market funds of the total $7.19bn that moved into equity funds as a whole. At the same time, investors withdrew $1.79bn from the US equity market. Of course, there are dangers in following the herd, but equally this may not be the time to fight the consensus. The right investment will depend on your particular circumstances and we are happy to share our views. A new regulator The financial industry, including us, will soon have a new regulator - The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Its vision is to ‘make markets work well so consumers get a fair deal’. The FCA starts work this year. In reality, there is likely to be little change from the days of the Financial Services Authority but our clients will see a change of name on our literature. IMPORTANT NOTICE Past performance is not necessarily a guide to the future and the value of investments can go down as well as up. You might not get back the full amount invested particularly if an encashment is made in the early years.

Free from landline - 0800 433 2 344 Free from mobile - 0333 577 2 344

Ready to get out and explore? EdgeMagazine

You can hit the town knowing you have a nice comfy room waiting for you with extras like free hot breakfast and free high speed internet throughout the hotel to help make your stay more enjoyable. Plus you can earn Hilton HHonours points and airline miles with every stay. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s real value from Hampton.

What you can expect from Hampton by Hilton Broad Street: s &REE INTERNET s &REE HOT BREAKFAST s /N SITE CAR PARKING s &ITNESS SUITE s -EETING ROOM s SATISFACTION OR YOUR MONEY BACK

#ONTACT INFO WWW HAMPTONBIRMINGHAM CO UK

Friendly service, clean rooms, comfortable surroundings, every time. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not satisfied, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect you to pay. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our commitment and your guarantee. 4HAT S (AMPTON â&#x201E;˘

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

www.edgemagazine.org

A FUND FOR ALL SEASONS Not just for a rainy day Tom Ware

he term ‘hedge fund’ is one that often strikes fear into the hearts of many ordinary investors because the perception of hedge funds is one of high net worth gambling. In some cases this is in fact the case, as a number of these funds can be secretive in what it is they invest and often come with substantial minimum investment levels and investment terms. The sector’s image also suffered as a result of the last financial crisis a number of these high profile vehicles lost substantial amounts of money and in a number of cases closed as liquidity dried up. However, by its very nature the word ‘hedge’ implies a reduction of risk and there are a number of strategies used in the world of hedge fund management that do just that. The problem comes when one single strategy or position is allowed to dominate the direction of the entire portfolio. Over the past decade we have seen an unprecedented growth in the use of Absolute Return funds in the retail space. These are funds that are considered by many to be cautious investments used as a risk reducer in a portfolio which implements similar strategies to those found in the hedge fund space. With this sector, one has to tread carefully as the road of Absolute Return is littered with funds failing to deliver what it ‘says on the tin’. Nevertheless, the managers’ focus on avoiding losses means these absolute return funds can be very useful to investors with a low tolerance to risk or when markets have run to high levels. With an in depth understanding of the strategies within these funds, it is possible to blend them within a portfolio to further limit the risk to capital and provide further diversification. In our opinion, the key to a good absolute return fund is one that has a blend of strategies, none of which are allowed to dominate the source of return. One fund house has been able to achieve this on a consistent basis through a variety of market conditions since the launch of Standard Life Global Absolute Return Strategies. The fund is managed in Edinburgh by a team of 28 investment professionals specialising in all areas of derivative and macro theme investing; a team able to boast an average of 17 years investment experience. The aim of the Fund is to produce positive returns through all market conditions whilst showing a low correlation to world equity markets. Since its launch for institutional

investors in 2006, the Fund has delivered an 8.9%* annualised return. The UK retail Fund aims to implement around 30 strategies in the portfolio, which has now reached just over £14bn in size, with specific attention being paid to the correlation between these positions. Whist some of these strategies are complex in their nature, unlike a hedge fund, they are not constructed within a ‘black box’ and upon request an explanation can be given as to the thinking behind each position, all of which are published on the funds monthly factsheet. Not all Absolute Return Funds have been successful in bringing previously institutional strategies to the retail market but SLI GARS is a good example of what can be achieved if the process is applied successfully by a group with the skills and resource to run such a Fund. It is important at this stage to highlight the fact that whilst absolute return funds aim for positive returns in all market conditions, this is usually expressed in terms of a rolling 3 year period. SLI GARS aims to achieve returns of London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 5% over a rolling 3 year period (a period of 36 months from any chosen starting date). Whilst past performance is in no way a guide to future return, through a well balanced and diverse portfolio of assets and positions that have a low correlation to each other, lower volatility is far more likely.

Churchill Investments 01934 844444 info@churchillinvestment.co.uk www.churchill.uk.net

EdgeMagazine

HELP HARRY HELP OTHERS A national fight against brain cancer Hannah Griffiths

very once in a while a story, person or moment captures the heart of the nation. It makes us reflect on life and what we can do to change the future. One young boy chose to make a difference. He decided that no person should ever grow through the heartbreaking life he was living. But in order for him to make that possible, he needed your help. That young, brave boy was Harry Moseley and he set out to encourage everyone to Help Harry Help Others. Help Harry Help Others was set up in the summer of 2009 by Harry with the help of his family. Harry had been suffering from a Pilocytic Astrocytoma, a rare brain tumour, which was unfortunately located deep inside his brain, making operating an impossible solution. Harry was first taken to hospital after his mum, Georgina, noticed that he had begun reading and watching television with his head tilted to one side. ‘I thought it might be an issue with Harry’s eyesight so I rang the local opticians who opened up for us as we were quite worried. I thought it might be nothing but as a mother you can’t take any chances when it comes to your child’s health’, says Georgina. ‘When the optician examined him, he noticed a shadow at the back of Harry’s eyes and immediately referred him to Heartlands Hospital’. It was then that Harry and his family began a devastating journey. ‘As a family, we always had the philosophy of not worrying about something until you know what you’re faced with because you may end up worrying about nothing at all’, says Georgina. But following a second MRI, Harry was diagnosed with a form of brain cancer which due to its location made the only possible treatments either chemotherapy, which would be administered intravenously through a central line in the chest, or radiotherapy, which would involve a laser targeting the tumour directly in order to control cell growth. Due to Harry’s age, radiotherapy was ruled out but he soon began chemotherapy which unfortunately came with side effects including tiredness, weakness and hair loss. Harry always tried to lighten the air even asking his mum whether he could have a beanie hat. Harry was supposed to undergo 18 months of treatment but after just four months, treatment was halted as his

young body had become so weak and full of toxins that the chemo was doing more harm than good. It was then that a further MRI scan was conducted which showed that the treatment hadn’t worked and the tumour had in fact grown. Georgina and the rest of Harry’s family were in despair, ‘I immediately thought that if the chemo hadn’t worked and if surgery wasn’t an option, what could the doctors do?'. The doctors decided that the only option was for Harry to undergo radiotherapy. Harry began his next bout of treatment in November 2007, attending the Queen Elizabeth II Hospital in Birmingham five days a week for a period of six weeks. It was during his radiotherapy that Harry met Robert Harley, a fellow brain cancer sufferer. Little did Harry know that their friendship would inspire his future campaign. After finishing his treatment, Harry remained in contact with Robert frequently visiting him and his wife at their farmhouse. But in June 2009, Robert took a turn for the worse and was rushed back to hospital. Harry begged his mum to let him go and see Robert. ‘As a parent you have to try and protect your children from certain things and we just thought that the sight of Robert in that hospital so sick might upset Harry’, says Georgina. ‘We sat Harry down and had a chat with him beforehand, explaining that we wanted to protect him and not to frighten him or put negative thoughts in his head. But Harry turned to us and said “Mum, if I ever got poorly you wouldn’t want people not to come and see me at the hospital because of how they would feel would you?” We couldn’t argue with a response like that so we decided to take Harry to see his friend’. Robert had developed another tumour in his brain and was very weak and tired. Harry sat with him talking about how he was going to pay Robert a visit during the school holidays so he could teach Harry how to swim like he had promised. It was from that visit to Robert in hospital that Harry decided he had to do something to help Robert get better. Harry wanted to bring awareness and launch a charity. After a trip to Hobbycraft to gain inspiration, Harry set out to make bracelets to give people as a thank you gift for supporting his campaign. Harry spent hours making bracelets and within a few days he had made hundreds. Harry spent his time talking

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

to people about his campaign and telling them he was going to raise money for vital research projects. Harry made posters, gave presentations and was often filmed by the local news team as so many people were amazed by how Harry always wanted to do more. Harry not only took his campaign to conferences and businesses, he also developed a schools initiative where he gave presentations and talked to the pupils in schools up and down the country. The kids then had the opportunity to make a Harry bracelet with 15p of the profits going to their own school fund. As Harry’s campaign gathered pace, Robert passed away. Whilst it came as a shock to both Harry and his family, it gave Harry more drive and determination to help find a cure for the disease. Robert had supported Harry’s campaign since the beginning, wearing a special dark green bracelet designed by Harry to match one of his classic cars. Each passing day saw Harry’s campaign gain interest from not only the public but a number of famous faces, including Harry’s heroes, Peter Jones, Theo Paphitis and Duncan Bannatyne, from Dragons’ Den. Each of them received a bracelet to show their dedication to the campaign. In August 2011, Harry’s health drastically deteriorated. Fluid had been building on Harry’s brain as the tumour had begun to grow again causing a blockage which needed to be dealt with quickly. Surgeons successfully inserted a shunt into Harry’s brain helping to drain the fluid but two weeks later, Harry underwent major brain surgery to remove a large amount of his tumour. It was during this surgery that Harry suffered a haemorrhage. Following his operation, Harry was taken to the ICU department, where he remained attached to ventilators, until doctors delivered the heart-breaking news that

Harry’s brain would never recover and that there was little hope of him waking from his coma. Harry’s story and his campaign touched thousands of people across the globe and although his own personal fight is over, his mum Georgina still continues to fulfil Harry’s dream of finding a cure. ‘In mind of Harry’s philosophy of not wanting anyone to go through what he went through or what we went through as a family, I made the decision to carry on with Harry’s work. Giving up on Help Harry Help Others wasn’t an option for me no matter how I felt. Harry had devoted his life to his campaign and I had to keep it alive’, says Georgina. Since Harry’s passing, his dream to find a cure for cancer still lives on through the Help Harry Help Others charity. Harry was determined to help prevent others from battling the same illness that had claimed his young life but in order to succeed he needed your help and he still does. Harry’s campaign has helped to raise a vast amount for vital research into finding a cure. But that cure hasn’t been found yet. Harry put his heart and soul into his campaign and what it stood for as he continued both a national and personal fight against brain cancer. The signature Harry bracelet was not only Harry’s token gesture to his donators but it was and still is a symbol for the charity, ‘hand made with love for all people with cancer’. Harry’s bracelets are available in a number of colours, styles and sizes. You can purchase a bracelet either to show your support personally, as a gift or even as a wedding favour. Harry fought until his last moments and now it is your chance to Help Harry Help Others.

For more information head to www.hhho.org.uk or email georgie@hhho.org.uk

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

WHAT’S ON

What: Crufts 2013 Where: NEC, Birmingham When: 7th-10th March Crufts, the biggest and best celebration of dogs returns for another year at Birmingham’s NEC arena. Showcasing a whole host of tailwagging, fact finding and dog loving, Crufts is a day out for all the family, not just the dog. For more information visit: www.thenec.co.uk

has seized the throne from the Lancastrian pretenders. However, all is not well. Brother to the King and decorated war hero Richard Duke of Gloucester has decided that he wants the crown for himself, and will stop at nothing to achieve his goal. Warwick University Drama Society presents a witty and disturbing portrait of one of the greatest villains in the history of the English stage. For more information visit: www. warwickartscentre.co.uk

Stephen Davis Shooterz Photography

What: World War I Weekend Where: Black Country Museum

What: Budapest Café Orchestra Where: Huntingdon Hall

What: Richard III Where: Warwick Arts Centre When: 6th-9th March, 7:45pm The War of the Roses is over. King Edward IV, the great patriarch of the House of York,

For more information visit: www.bclm.co.uk

For more information visit: www.macarts.co.uk

When: 8th March, 8pm The Budapest Café Orchestra plays traditional folk and gypsy music from across the Balkans and Russia. Featuring one of Europe’s most celebrated jazz violinists Chris Garrick and the supreme accordion champion of Great Britain, Eddie Hession, presenting a wide ranging programme of music evoking vivid images of a Budapest Café life it’s good enough to make you want to book a holiday. For more information visit: www.worcesterlive. co.uk/huntingdon-hall. asp

When: 9th-10th March WWI military reenactment groups; The Warwicks and The Great War Society will be conducting a weekend of demonstrations and activities at Dudley’s Black Country Living Museum. Visitors are given the opportunity to see firsthand, the life of a Royal Warwickshire Regiment soldier and experience a small taste of what it felt like to take part in the war to end all wars.

new photo documentary exhibit at Birmingham’s mac, focussing on LGBT parenting and creating a positive image of homosexual families who raise healthy and happy children.

What: SHOUT Festival: We Make, We Love, We Exist When: 2nd-10th March Where: mac Birmingham Midlands based portrait photographer Marta Kochanek, displays her

What: Hartlebury Wedding Fair Where: Hartlebury Museum When: 17th March, 11am5pm Need help planning your wedding day? Head on down to the Hartlebury Wedding Fair for all the essentials to help your big day go off without a hitch. Visitors to the wedding fair will be able to enjoy the wonderful surroundings of the Castle as well as enjoying a carriage ride around the circle courtesy of the Grafton Carriage Company. Admission is free however donations to the trust are welcome. For more information visit: www.whub.org.uk

www.edgemagazine.org

to have you in fits of laughter from start to finish. Due to the content this event is only suitable for ages 18+. For more information visit: www.artrix.co.uk What: Hitchcock Where: The Regal When: Various Showings from the 22nd February Hitchcock follows its eponymous hero in the filming of the iconic horror Psycho (1960), a revolutionary contribution to the cinematic world. Anthony Hopkins gives a stellar performance as the legendary film director in Sacha Gervasi’s account of the making of a masterpiece. Supported by a star studded cast including Helen Mirren, Scarlett Johansson and Jessica Biel, Hitchcock is a brilliant film about a brilliant man. For more information visit: www.theregal.ac

What: World Book Day When: 7th March Where: The Hive, Worcestershire Writing West Midlands and The Hive have joined forces this World Book Day to bring a whole host of family fun activities to Worcester. From 11am till 5pm children and adults can create mini books and short stories before relaxing in a story telling session in the magical children’s library. No booking is necessary, just turn up and enjoy a free day of fun activities. For more information visit:

What: Barnstormers Comedy

www.thehiveworcester. org

Where: Artrix When: 16th March, 8pm Barnstormers comedy introduces three of London’s funniest, cleverest and maybe silliest stand-up comedians. Featuring Steve Harris, Brian Higgins and Dan Evans, Barnstormers is set

EdgeMagazine

www.edgemagazine.org

EdgeMagazine

A LITTLE COMIC RELIEF Get creative in the kitchen

or 364 days of the year you won’t find many people walking around wearing red noses, albeit unless they work in the circus industry. But for one day of the year, we push our vanity aside and indulge in a little Comic Relief. Comic Relief was launched on Christmas Day 1985, live on BBC One, with the idea simply being to make the public laugh whilst raising money. That simple idea developed into an annual Red Nose Day raising £600 million to help people in desperate need, both in the UK and Africa. Now as 2013 marks the 25th anniversary of Red Nose Day, the team behind Comic Relief are joining forces with ten of Britain’s favourite celebrity chefs and cooks to celebrate Emma Bridgewater’s stunning homeware range for this year’s Red Nose Day. Emma Bridgewater’s Red Nose Day range consists of six different mug designs, two tea towels and apron designs, an oven glove and a bag for life, all designed for Red Nose Day to encourage the great British public to ‘Do Something Funny For Money’. The money donated from sales of the products will be spent by Comic Relief to help people in need in Africa and here in the UK. Those championing the campaign to get the nation cooking using the Emma Bridgewater Red Nose Day products are; Angela Hartnett, Michael Caines, Raymond Blanc, Valentine Warner, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Allegra McEvedy, Antonio Carluccio, Monica Galetti and Birmingham’s own Glynn Purnell and Aktar Islam. One of Birmingham’s leading restaurateurs Glynn Purnell of Purnell’s, says ‘I’m urging everyone to get down to HomeSense stores and purchase Emma Bridgewater’s

quirky range of products for Red Nose Day. This campaign has received overwhelming support from wellknown chefs across the country and is perfectly placed to get the nation back into the kitchen. The quality of design and merchandise available will ensure that vital funds will be raised to help those less fortunate both here in the UK and Africa. I am extremely proud to be involved and hope Red Nose Day 2013 receives the support it deserves’. Aktar Islam from Lasan Group and Birmingham’s first Argentinean restaurant Fiesta del Asado commented, ‘Emma Bridgewater has designed a stunning range of products for Comic Relief so please support the campaign to ensure we raise lots of money for such an important cause. TK Maxx and HomeSense have stores located across the UK so it is easy to help by purchasing one of the products, or why not buy the entire collection? It is important to remember those who are less fortunate. As hard as things may be for us, imagine how difficult life is for the vulnerable people in our society and further afield in Africa’. The products are available from Red Nose Day’s official partner HomeSense, the homeware retailer selling leading brands at up to 60% off the RRP. They’re already proving to be a massive hit with baking and cooking enthusiasts throughout the country, who are helping raise money whilst looking fabulous and getting creative in the kitchen. Red Nose Day will take place on Friday 15th March. Donations to Comic Relief can be made by either purchasing an official Red Nose Day product, through sponsorship or by making a one-off donation online. www.rednoseday.com

EdgeMagazine

NOW OPEN SUNDAYS

TURNING THE SUNDAY ROAST ON ITS HEAD

Cock-a-Doodle-Do!! By popular request The Flat Chicken is now open on Sundays - serving a Sunday lunch of rotisserie chicken, stuffing, bread sauce, cauliflower cheese and seasonal vegetables ALL FOR £9.95. Of course our usual menu will also be available offering freerange chickens, which are lightly steamed to lock in moisture then cooked to perfection on a French rotisserie, and awardwinning Aubrey Allen steaks all complemented with a choice of equally mouth-watering side dishes. The brainchild of a multi award-winning gastro team The Flat Chicken offers a fresh alternative on dining out serving simple cuisine matched by simple prices. It’s lively, fashionable and original - everything eating out should be. Why no give it a try this Sunday?

44 GUILD STREET, STRATFORD UPON AVON CV37 6QY. TEL: 01789 415542 www.theflatchicken.com

Open Wed - Sun 11am - 11pm Food served from 12noon - 9.30pm